Next week, Cabinet members will discuss our revised Street Trading Policy, featuring significant reductions in fees and charges for traders across the borough.

The revised policy follows an extensive consultation process which includes public feedback, discussions with traders, and formal engagements with key stakeholders such as South Yorkshire Police, the Highways Authority, and the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF). Comments and questions from local business owners and the public informed the changes, ensuring the policy meets the needs of our traders while enhancing Barnsley’s appeal as a destination to live, work, and visit. The amended policy will support our local economy and traders across the borough.

Key amendments to support traders

• Reduced fees and charges: Annual fees for static pitches have been significantly reduced, with fees outside the town centre for food traders dropping to £600 and non-food traders to £400. Occasional trading fees have also been streamlined, with food trading at £55 per day and non-food at £35 per day. Fees for mobile trading, such as ice cream vans, are £250 for 12 months.
• Introduction of flexible payment plans: To support start-ups and small businesses, quarterly payment plans will be available for certain consents, easing financial pressures for traders.
• Multiple static trading consent: Traders can now apply for a single consent covering two trading pitches, reducing processes and offering greater flexibility.
• Expanded standard pitch sizes: Standard pitch sizes have increased to 18 square meters, accommodating the needs of traders with larger vehicles or setups.

In addition, Special Events Consent has been removed. Any organiser of an event with five stalls or more will need to inform us and apply for permission to hold a market. For events with less than five stalls, each trader will need their own street trading consent.   

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture said: “Barnsley’s traders are at the heart of our community, and their feedback has been invaluable in shaping this policy.

“We’re proud to introduce changes that not only reduce financial costs but also streamline processes and encourage new businesses.

“These updates will ensure our high streets and town centres remain vibrant and welcoming places for everyone.” 

The revised policy, including the updated fees and charges, is set to be formally approved by Full Council in February 2025, with the new regulations coming into effect from 1 April 2025.