Overview

The Bournemouth Borough Council Act 2010 grants Bournemouth Borough Council enhanced powers to regulate street trading within the borough. It amends existing legislation and provides for the seizure and forfeiture of goods and equipment used in illegal street trading activities.

Description

This Act primarily amends Schedule 4 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, extending its application to street trading in Bournemouth. Key changes include a broadened definition of "street trading" to encompass the offering of services, not just goods. The Act also introduces specific regulations for pedlars, including limitations on location and time spent trading, minimum distances between trading locations, and a mandatory display of pedlar certificates.

Seizure and Forfeiture

The Act empowers authorised council officers and constables to seize articles, receptacles, or equipment used in connection with illegal street trading. Seizure is permissible if there are reasonable grounds to believe an offence has been committed and the seized items are needed as evidence or are subject to forfeiture. Clear procedures are outlined for notifying the individuals involved and returning seized items once proceedings conclude, unless forfeited by a court order. The Act also details provisions for compensation if the seizure is deemed unlawful.

Government Spending

The Act's impact on UK government spending is minimal. The primary financial implications are borne by the Bournemouth Borough Council through administrative costs associated with enforcing the new regulations and potentially compensating individuals for unlawful seizures. No specific figures are provided within the act itself.

Groups Affected

• Street traders: The Act significantly affects street traders in Bournemouth, potentially restricting their activities through stricter regulations and the possibility of seizure and forfeiture of their goods and equipment.
• Pedlars: Pedlars in Bournemouth face more stringent rules regarding location, trading duration, and distance between trading spots.
• Bournemouth Borough Council: The council gains increased powers to manage street trading and incurs administrative costs related to enforcement.
• Dorset Police: The police are involved in the enforcement process, particularly in seizures alongside council officers.

Powered by nyModel