Issue - meetings

This report presents a request from an ice-cream vendor to trade on Epsom Downs.

The Conservators received a report presenting a request from an ice cream vendor for approval to trade on Epsom Downs.

The Conservators were informed that the vendor had operated an ice cream van from the Downs for many years but without a licence. The request for approval to trade on the Downs was made to the Conservators in tandem with the vendor’s application for a licence from the Borough Council, to regularise the arrangements.

It was noted that the vendor would operate from one of two locations on the Downs. These were on the road near the Hyperion and Top car parks.

Concern was expressed that the vending of ice creams could obstruct certain activities undertaken to prepare for race meetings, and that it could also lead to an increase in litter on the Downs. It was noted that these matters could be considered by the Council when placing conditions on the vendor’s licence.

It was noted that a licence issued by the Council would be valid for one year and that the Conservators could review any conditions placed on it prior to a new licence being issued if they so wished.

Following consideration, the Conservators:

(1)          Approved a request from Mr Perkins to trade on Epsom Downs subject to approval from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s Licencing Department and the following conditions:

a)            The conditions set out in paragraphs 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 of the report, namely:

That the times allowed be 12.00 – 20.00 or closure of the Downs, whichever is the earlier;

That there should be no use of ‘musical chimes’ whilst on the Downs;

That no vending should take place on any race day held by Epsom Downs Racecourse;

That the areas permitted for trading be restricted to those identified in Annexe 1 to the report.

b)            That the vendor will comply with all reasonable directions from Epsom Downs Racecourse staff with regard to hours and location of trading.

(2)          Agreed to request the Council’s Licensing officers consider the inclusion of a condition requiring the vendor to provide a bin for litter when operating on the Downs.

(3)          Noted and agreed the two locations from where the vendor may sell ice-cream from his van, as defined on Annexe 1 to the report.