A pilot scheme to set up trading zones on Aberystwyth promenade could be in “danger of creating a Welsh Blackpool”, a councillor said.

While welcoming the proposal for a pilot this summer to set up six zones on the popular prom, Cllr Lyndon Lloyd warned it also needed “management”.

And he said there was “a danger of creating a Welsh Blackpool here.”

Other councillors at last week’s thriving communities scrutiny committee said the plan would require high-quality traders as well as sufficient monitoring.

A trial period will start this July, running until after October half term, to generate income from the promenade area by leasing out sections of council land.

A proposal to charge £2,000 for a 50m² space and £1,000 for a 25m² space will be decided by Cabinet next week.

Two spaces, one at the north and one at the south end of the promenade, will be for small vehicles with “quirky” ideas and not burger vans, the committee heard.

Four larger spaces on the promenade will be available for seating areas for existing businesses on the other side of the roads.

There will be a number of conditions imposed on the leases, including no single-use plastic, branded cups and other items, as well as a responsibility to keep the area clean and rubbish-free.

Aberystwyth Town Council said a focus on Welsh produce would be desirable.

This was agreed by county councillors at a meeting on Thursday.

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