A Tenby county councillor has hit out at the failure to tackle unauthorised ‘street trading’ in the historic town once again this summer.

Members of Tenby Town Council have campaigned Pembrokeshire County Council in recent years, to ask them to consider introducing a bye-law to eradicate ‘nuisance street traders’ who cause obstruction in areas of the resort.

Councillors outlined their concerns, especially with activities blocking the Five Arches, which adversely affected one of the resort’s iconic images, and also Tudor Square, where a significant amount of money had been invested by the authority to enhance the area, only to have these operators come in and cheapen the outlook of the centre of the town.

Now county councillor Michael Williams, who represents the Tenby North ward has written to the head of Legal Services at PCC, Claire Incledon, for an urgent update on the latest position regarding street trading in the town

“My understanding was that this form of trading would be stopped by this time with the implementation of new bye laws,” said Clr. Williams

“The situation is now considerably worse than previously, with footpaths and the highway being obstructed by these traders.

“The impression given of this historic town is frankly appalling. Tudor Square has several of these inappropriate trailers as well as a horse drawn cart, which compared with previous operators is distinctly down market.

“The situation at the Five Arches, is that often one arch is blocked which is completely unacceptable.

“The entire impression does not reflect the quality tourism that visitors seek these days, and that most of those that pay very high business rates strive to offer, and it is the responsibility of the County Council to address this decline in standards. Thus far it has totally failed!” he added.