A pilot scheme allowing traders to pitch up along Aberystwyth promenade this summer has been hailed as a success.

The project, which launched in August, has seen a handful of traders take advantage of the trial which allows them to serve and sell food and drink along Aber’s promenade following a petition in 2018.

The petition, launched by Electra MotoGear, campaigned against Ceredigion County Council’s lease agreement with David Day, owner of PD’s diner, which stopped other trading establishments from putting tables and chairs along the promenade.

Speaking on the summer’s trade, Ollie Petrou, from Electra MotoGear said: “The new lease has allowed Aberystwyth to become more welcoming and more inclusive to people.

“The response from people has been overwhelmingly positive.

“This scheme is a necessity and good for the economic development of Aberystwyth.”

While feedback on the new scheme has been positive, traders have suggested tweaks that could improve the situation if the scheme is to carry on long term, such as adequate power outputs.

Jonathan Foligno, the owner of the Express fish and chip shop, expanded his business, introducing a mobile restaurant, selling fish and chips on the promenade.

Mr Foligno also said that feedback from customers and passers by has been amazing.

He added: “The lease was fairly short though – from August to November. And we didn’t have the best weather. Going forward, I think a longer season, from March to October would make the endeavour a lot more worthwhile.”

Mr Foligno also said there was an issue with the high price of a lease on the promenade and a lack of electrical points, meaning he had to use a generator.

A spokesperson for Ceredigion council said: “A full review of the trial will inform the future strategy.

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