COUNCILLORS are this week debating whether or not car boot sales should be allowed in Wirral, after banning them as 'a threat to the Council's own market in Birkenhead.'

Wirral Council banned boot sales after two large Sunday car boot sales became established at Leasowe and in Birkenhead town centre. Legal action closed them and the Council also adopted a get tough policy against smaller boot sales opening in places such as Hoylake and West Kirby.

Car boot sales evoke both support and protests, the latter usually from residents living near car boot sites. Both the Council and Trading Standards were concerned by the growth of car boot sales, particularly those attracting traders making a living by selling both new and secondhand items. There were also car parking problems caused by people visiting the car boots.

Borough Solicitor Phil Manson wants councillors to confirm the policy on boot sales, following petitions from people wanting them.

"In order to progress the matter further members may like to give consideration to canvassing a wider spread of views before taking a final decision," he suggests in a report to tonight's property services committee.

Boot sales, or not? What do our readers think? Write to the Editor, Wirral Globe, Catherine Street, Birkenhead, L41 6HW.

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