THE sale of cars on grass vergers in Chelmsford is to be banned from later this month, with those caught in the act liable to be fined up to £1,000.

From Monday, September 15, the city council will designate all streets within the district as consent streets, in order to “control street trading and to preserve the character, ambience and safety of local environments.”

As part of the street trading legislation, the sale of vehicles on grass verges and streets in the city will not be permitted. The council will be working in partnership with Essex Police and will prosecute the owners of any vehicles being sold illegally, which could result in the fine.

Councillor Ian Grundy, in charge of safer communities said: “This new policy will help reduce illegal street trading significantly. “It ensures a fair and transparent decision making process for the determination of applications for street trading consents whist maintaining the council’s strong stance against nuisance trading.”

“We want to ensure that community events continue thrive and this new policy helps to encourage that.”

Information regarding street trading can be found on the council’s website at www.chelmsford.gov.uk.