Overview

This bill amends the Sunday Trading Act 1994 to allow local authorities in England and Wales to permit extended Sunday opening hours for garden centres selling horticultural supplies. The decision on whether to extend opening hours rests with each local authority.

Description

The bill modifies the 1994 act by adding a new definition of "garden centre" and allowing local authorities to pass resolutions permitting longer Sunday opening hours for these businesses.

Key Changes:

• Definition of "garden centre": The bill defines a garden centre as a large shop primarily selling horticultural supplies.
• Local Authority Resolutions: Local authorities can pass resolutions allowing garden centres within their area to open for up to eight continuous hours on Sundays, between 9 am and 7 pm.
• Resolution Flexibility: These resolutions can be for all Sundays, specific Sundays, or a limited number of Sundays within a specified period (e.g., four Sundays between March and May).
• Resolution Control: Local authorities can also rescind or modify their resolutions.
• Executive Arrangements: The bill clarifies that the resolution-making power lies with the local authority itself, not just its executive.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact UK government spending. The changes are administrative and place the decision-making power at the local authority level. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Garden Centres: The bill directly affects garden centres in England and Wales, potentially allowing them to increase trading hours on Sundays, boosting sales and potentially creating more employment opportunities.
• Local Authorities: Local authorities will have the responsibility of deciding whether or not to allow extended Sunday trading for garden centres in their area, requiring administrative effort and potentially public consultation.
• Employees of Garden Centres: Employees might see altered working patterns and potentially increased hours or shifts depending on local authority decisions.
• Residents: Residents may experience altered access to garden centres on Sundays, depending on their local authority's decision.

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