The authority of Marlow town failed to keep the century old fish business alive in the town as the owner decided to quit due to red tapism. Phil Bowditch fishmongers, is 104 years old and its owner Mike Robson express his desire to run the business from a burger-style trailer when his High Street shop closes early next month.
He informed that it is not good to go through ‘red tape’ to get planning permission for the new service for Dean Street car park. Robson has decided to move because the shop has been bought by developers but first he refused to get planning permission. Commenting on that Wycombe District Council said such services “usually” needed permission.
Robson has planned to move his shop to Emmetts Farm Shop in Marlow Road, Little Marlow. Reacting on his new move Robson said that he was fed up with red tape. He wants to roll up sell some fish and then drive away at night. He exclaimed that he would lose passing trade.
Joanne Mass, communications officer for the council, said it is under law that selling food from a van parked in a fixed location needs street traders consent and, usually, planning permission. He added that the authority would be happy to consider a planning application from Robson. But Robson said he could not afford to stay in town eve if given the choice.
