Steven Raymond, a market trader who has sold fruit and vegetables outside Marks and Spencer in Epping, Essex, for 25 years, has denied allegations of poor behaviour after his licence renewal was challenged. The challenge came from Epping Town Council, but the district council approved the renewal.
Licence renewal challenged
Mr Raymond holds a licence to sell fruit, vegetables, salad, herbs, flowers, and eggs on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7am to 6pm. He was granted permission by Epping Forest District Council last year, and his latest application was to renew on the same terms.
However, Epping Town Council objected, claiming Mr Raymond had previously been allowed to trade on Mondays but that permission was withdrawn amid complaints about his conduct. The town council also alleged he parked on council land where he was not allowed and failed to remove all his rubbish after trading.
Claims of impact on High Street
The town council argued his stall could impact existing High Street businesses, which already face costs such as rent and business rates, and that nearby retailers sell similar produce. They also warned about the future of the Monday market, which has operated under a historic charter since 1253, saying fruit and vegetables are a key draw for shoppers.
Mr Raymond told the hearing there was “not one proof” he had done anything wrong. He said he had been a market trader for more than 45 years and insisted he keeps his pitch tidy. He added: “I’m an accommodating person. I’m here to help people, not object to people.”
Trader's response
Recovering from illness, Mr Raymond said he had traded at the location for so long he had even met senior figures from M&S, adding that any early issues had since been resolved. “I just did my job,” he said. “They are my opposition like I’m their opposition… It’s fine now.”
Marks & Spencer did not attend the meeting and has not lodged a formal complaint with the district council. However, it was claimed the retailer had raised concerns with the town council about alleged inappropriate behaviour towards staff. Mr Raymond denied shouting or being abusive.
Council decision
Epping Forest District Council said temporary road closures on Bakers Lane had restricted access to M&S’s loading bay, causing frustration. The district council said it had not received any first-hand complaints over the past 12 months, but the town council passed on complaints it said came from M&S – two about alleged abusive behaviour and one claiming a vehicle was parked to block unloading.
A meeting was held on November 25 last year to discuss the issues, but no further action was taken. The council’s licensing committee approved the renewal, with committee chairman Councillor Stephen Heather confirming Mr Raymond is free to continue trading.
