A local market faces closure due to a new £100 tax for street stalls, raising concerns among vendors and community members about future events.
He mentioned that the Christmas market might be the last one. They had to pay £100 for just two stalls. If the rules don’t change, the market will end.
To sell goods on the street in Stockton, vendors need council permission. A new policy made the whole area a “consent area,” with fees ranging from £100 to £2,140.
Cllr Strike noted that the tax makes it hard to keep the market going. Foot traffic dropped by 30% to 40% after they raised charges. He asked if community events could be exempt from this tax.
Cllr Norma Stephenson responded that community events are exempt if there’s no profit. She mentioned a review of the rules is planned within 12 to 18 months.
Cllr Strike expressed concern that without changes, the market would close. He plans to submit a petition to save it. He asked what the council would say to stallholders and residents if the market ends.
Cllr Stephenson encouraged participation in the upcoming consultation. She emphasized that if vendors profit, they should pay for a license.
Cllr Strike called the council meeting his “last hope” for the market. He mentioned they might explore indoor events instead, as outdoor markets are no longer viable with the tax.
