New Ludlow councillor to press on with controversial mobile farm shop plans

A Ludlow businessman has become a town councillor.

James Evans was voted in to serve one of the Bringewood Ward seats following as co-option process at a Ludlow Town Council meeting.

Councillor Evans runs Evans Family Grocers, a firm that supply retail outlets, caterers and households with fruit, vegetables, plans, and cut flowers.

Earlier this year, the company joined forces with Lizzie's Layers to open up Bull Ring Farm Shop.

However, due to access issues and the lack of parking, plus the fact that some people struggle to get to the shops, the owners have proposed running a mobile farm shop that would run three days a week.

This, they say, would stop for around 30 minutes at each location.

Councillors have expressed support for the initiative due to its potential social and economic benefits.

However, the proposal cannot be ratified until the current street trading policy is amended, which will involve formal consideration, consultation and due diligence.

Councillor Evans said he will continue with his street trade application regardless of him now being on the town council.

He added that running his businesses, from nothing at the age 27, provided him with a better understanding of the challenges faced by Ludlow's independent retailers.

"It has had to make me work for myself and my family," said Councillor Evans, who has replaced Alan Tapley.

"I am a good business person and know how to run a tight ship.

"Being from a younger generation, I feel I can bring a different perspective to the table. Being in the town every day, serving my customers, I get the views from a much wider audience.

"I have sat in a few town council meetings lately regarding my street trading application. I will continue to pursue my ambition.

"Attending these meetings has genuinely given me a real interest in the local council and I've seen how important it is.

"Being part of this council, I can try and make a difference where I and others feel it is needed. Overall, I just want to give something back to the community that supports me every day."

Meanwhile, Ludlow Town Council is inviting applications for co-option for the second Bringewood Ward seat following the resignation of Ian Maxwell-Muller.

Anyone interested should complete an application form via ludlow.gov.uk and send it to [email protected] by January 11.

The town council will hold a co-option meeting on January 25.