A ‘COMPROMISE’ struck between Barnsley Council and ice cream van operators who claimed their livelihoods had been threatened by plans to ban them from being anywhere near schools has been praised.
Tuesday’s cabinet meeting saw councillors approve a 100-metre no-go zone for operators - much less than the 400 metres originally mooted.
Coun James Higginbottom, cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways, said: “This is a very welcome amendment as it strikes the right balance.
“We listened to those concerned, particular ice cream van operators, and this is a positive compromise between health objectives and their trade.”
Operators attended the meeting and told the Chronicle they were pleased common sense had prevailed.
Sue Cairns, who runs Sue’s Ices, said: “It’s a positive compromise for all concerned and we felt the need to attend the meeting to show that we’re pleased with the outcome.
“The original proposals threatened our livelihoods so this amendment saw us all breathe a sigh of relief.”
