THE centre of Weston could soon be filled with an array of street traders if a shake-up in council policy is approved. North Somerset Council wants to open up shopping areas such as the High Street and Big Lamp Corner to street traders to encourage a more

THE centre of Weston could soon be filled with an array of street traders if a shake-up in council policy is approved.North Somerset Council wants to open up shopping areas such as the High Street and Big Lamp Corner to street traders to encourage a more vibrant town centre.Council officers say under their proposed new policy they will be able to deal with complaints about street traders more effectively and quickly.The authority's executive committee will vote on the new policy at a meeting on Tuesday.If the proposal is approved, certain streets in North Somerset where traders are currently banned would turn into 'consent streets'.This means traders would be allowed to sell in the street if they were given permission by the council. They would also have to pay a small charge.One of the streets suggested to change from a banned street into a 'consent street' is Weston High Street.Streets in villages such as Yatton, Wrington and Burrington have also been put forward.Wrington Parish Council has said it fears the proposed new rules could spell the end for stalls at street fairs because of the charge they would have to pay.If councillors approve the scheme, a public consultation will take place before changes are implemented.In a report to councillors, officers say: "Councillors may be aware of the growing number of street traders who set up stalls on the pedestrian part of Weston High Street."At present, this activity is prohibited but the proposal to designate this area as a consent area would allow street trading in a controlled manner.