Council warning after market food traders stay put

Two food vendors have been warned they face legal action if they do not leave their site in Northampton Market Square.

West Northamptonshire Council gave Ciro's Place and Fryin' Brian four days' notice to leave the market by last Friday, but both operators have remained in place and continue to trade.

The Reform UK-controlled authority said the decision was made to "address instances of anti-social behaviour within the square" and as part of an "overall review of the offer of stalls".

But it prompted a protest in the town with calls of support for both of the long-standing traders.

In a statement to the BBC, West Northamptonshire Council said the "tenancy at will" expired at 20:00 BST last Friday and they were aware the businesses continued to trade.

A tenancy at will is usually a temporary agreement which can allow a commercial enterprise to operate on land.

"The council has asked the businesses to vacate immediately and will be taking enforcement action if this does not happen, including issuing court proceedings," a spokesperson said.

Staff had offered support and advice to both traders "to aid relocation", they said.

Joao Frade, who runs Ciro's Place which has been in the square since 1997, said he had no intention of abiding by the eviction notice.

He said the situation was "unfair" and said the council had failed to provide him with an adequate explanation for the eviction.

In addition to last Friday's protest, hundreds of people have signed a petition supporting the two food vendors.

"I'm getting support from everyone which is amazing," said Frade.

"It just shows to me that I haven't done anything wrong."

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