Two food vendors in Northampton Market Square are facing potential legal action after refusing to vacate their sites despite a council eviction notice. West Northamptonshire Council had issued a four-day notice to Ciro’s Place and Fryin’ Brian, requiring them to leave the market by last Friday. However, both businesses have remained operational and continue to trade.
Council Cites Anti-Social Behavior and Review
The Reform UK-controlled authority stated that the decision to evict was made to “address instances of anti-social behaviour within the square” and as part of an “overall review of the offer of stalls.” This move has sparked a local protest, with many residents expressing support for the long-standing traders.
In a statement to the BBC, West Northamptonshire Council confirmed that the “tenancy at will” agreement expired at 20:00 BST last Friday and acknowledged that the businesses continue to trade. A tenancy at will is typically a temporary arrangement allowing commercial operations on land.
Legal Action Threatened
A council spokesperson affirmed, “The council has asked the businesses to vacate immediately and will be taking enforcement action if this does not happen, including issuing court proceedings.” The council also noted that staff had offered support and advice to the traders to “aid relocation.”
Traders Defy Notice, Cite Unfairness
Joao Frade, owner of Ciro’s Place, which has operated in the square since 1997, has declared his intention not to comply with the eviction notice. Frade described the situation as “unfair” and stated that the council had failed to provide an adequate explanation for the eviction.
Beyond last Friday’s protest, hundreds of individuals have signed a petition in support of the two food vendors. Frade commented, “I’m getting support from everyone which is amazing. It just shows to me that I haven’t done anything wrong.”
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