Ludlow revolts against ice creams vans lowering the tone
A historic market town has revolted against an invasion of ice cream vans which "lower the tone".
A public consultation has been launched in Ludlow, Shropshire, after complaints there were too many ice creams vans, which were spoiling the town.
Critics say that the vans spoil views of the town centre's medieval and Georgian buildings.
Ludlow Town Council has received complaints from shoppers about ice cream vans in the square obstructing views of the historic castle.
The centuries-old castle, which stands on a hill in the centre of the town, attracts thousands of tourists each year.
Also, local shop, cafe and restaurant owners are worried that ice cream vans coming in from outside the town and setting up shop near the castle will take business from them.
Town clerk Veronica Calderbank said it was a hot topic councillors were working to tackle, after taking over management of street trading in April.
She said: "Shops seem to feel there are enough ice cream outlets already and argue they aren't making a profit, but in terms of the council decision, arguments about money don't stand.
"But if the town council feels enough ice cream is already being sold here, it can stop the street sales."
She said the lack of a definite council policy was causing public outcry, with one van owner being refused a permit in June yet still being allowed to trade.
A number of local shops sell ice cream in the local square.
Wendy Kirby, from Castle Lodge Buttery, said: "We've had a new van parked right in the middle of the square since May taking custom from all of us who have been here for years.
"My rent is extremely high and my rates are too, so to just see people come in from out of town and park up doesnt seem fair.
But Lorna Kendall, who runs the Wyvern Ices van, said: "We are the only ones in the whole of Ludlow selling soft ice cream so we aren't really in competition with anyone.
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