New Law In Place

New powers for the council to take action against illegal street traders come into force today.

From today anyone trading illegally on streets in the city centre could be prosecuted and have their goods seized by the councils Licensing enforcement officers. They will be working with the police who will enforce the new powers.

Cllr Debbie Almey the councillor who represents the city centre said, "We needed to protect the public against illegal traders who might be selling faulty goods, I am glad that the council managed to get Parliament to pass this new law in time for Christmas."

City council leader, Councillor Roger Blackmore said: "We have worked long and hard to put this bill through Parliament. It results from widespread consultation with local traders and a range of interested parties, as well as members of the public. I very much hope it will help combat the problem of illegal traders on the city's streets."

The Leicester City Council Act was passed in July this year, following action by Leicester City Council.