Redbridge Council’s new street trading policy has caused controversy in Wanstead, but aims to boost local enterprise, improve standards and keep the High Street vibrant, says Councillor Khayer Chowdhury
Street trading offers vital opportunities for local entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, reach new customers and test new business ideas in the local market. It also plays an important role in attracting footfall to high streets, strengthening local economies and fostering community vibrancy. The popular monthly market in Wanstead is a great example of how street trading can benefit an area.
For many years, street trading in Redbridge has operated without a formal policy. Instead, licence applications were handled under the London Local Authorities Act 1990. To bring greater structure and transparency to the process, the council undertook a borough-wide consultation in 2024 to develop a new street trading policy with updated criteria for licence applications.
The consultation ran from 22 July to 31 October 2024 (extended from its original end date) and was promoted widely through the council’s website and digital channels. The consultation received 80 responses and several thousand online views. Following careful analysis of the feedback, and after going through committee scrutiny, the new policy was formally adopted unanimously at full council. In line with statutory requirements, notices were then published in the Yellow Advertiser to invite interest in potential trading pitches. These notices form part of the legal process and were separate from the initial consultation on the policy itself.
The new policy establishes a clear framework for assessing street trading applications. It does not automatically grant licences. Instead, it sets out the criteria and application process that potential traders must meet to operate within the borough. Under the policy, successful applicants will receive one-year licences, which the council may revoke if conditions are not met. All stalls must be temporary and dismantled at the end of each trading day. The policy introduces robust new standards to ensure high-quality, well-designed stalls that enhance the existing High Street offerings. Key criteria include preventing public nuisance, including issues related to noise, waste, odours or vermin.
These measures aim to raise standards and promote a more strategic, better-managed approach to street trading across Redbridge. While the number of traders is not expected to increase significantly, the focus will be on quality, compliance and supporting thriving local high streets, alongside healthy competition and choice for residents. The new policy is more than a set of rules, it’s an investment in our high streets. By encouraging high-quality trading, the council is helping to nurture small businesses, bring fresh ideas to our local economy, create jobs and create high streets that are lively, diverse and welcoming.
Councillor Chowdhury is Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety. For more information on the street trading proposals, visit wnstd.com/marketstalls
