Bassetlaw council forced into humiliating climbdown over crackdown much-loved UK tradition | Politics | News
A council has been forced into a humiliating escalation over its crackdown on “pie huts and cupboards” following a furious public response to plans that threaten a beloved English countryside tradition.
Bassetlaw District Council has halted the implementation of its Street Traders Policy, particularly in relation to cake sheds and cupboards, so that it can take into account the wider impact of the rules on local people.
The U-turn means residents who trade from honesty box cake huts and cupboards on their own land can continue to do so without a licence.
Mo Metcalf-Fisher, of the Countryside Alliance, said: “Councils need to focus on providing the basics rather than stifling what makes our countryside great. “While it is right that Bassetlaw Council has made a U-turn on this issue, it is sad that officials thought this was a good idea in the first place.
“Honesty boxes are quintessentially British and play an important role in rural cohesion, where neighbors trust each other and give others the benefit of the doubt.
“For many farmers and growers they are an easy way to balance production and earn a little extra money, and are a great way to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who are learning the value of working hard, producing a product and getting paid for it. It’s important that other councils learn from this sad saga.”
June Evans, cabinet member for governance, said: “We have seen the public response to the introduction of this policy and the impact it could potentially have on residents providing ‘cakes or cupboards’. We also recognize the community benefit these businesses can provide in some areas.”
He added: “Given our current approach, we have decided to pause all enforcement action, particularly in relation to ‘cakes and cupboards’; this part of the Street Trader Policy, including any fees and charges, may be reviewed by our Licensing Committee.”
Ms Evans said a report had been prepared for the council committee to consider in June.
Meanwhile, local people will be able to continue using honesty boxes to sell products without having to obtain a license.
