Fenland District Council says it is now looking into complaints about ice cream vans operating near Wisbech Park after residents raised concerns over licensing, safety and public health.
Neighbours say they have been reporting issues for years, including noisy diesel engines idling for long periods on double yellow lines at the blind corner of Townshend Road and Tavistock Road, blocking a driveway and part of a national cycle route.
They also allege one trader continued operating with an expired MOT, and said vehicle parts have been left dumped on the verge following breakdowns.
There is also an accusation that one operator carried out commercial washing-up at the roadside.
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Residents claim they were repeatedly told the matter was either not the council’s responsibility or a police issue, and that previous reports to Fenland's environmental health and licensing had not led to any visible enforcement on the ground.
They say their own checks suggest the vans are not registered locally as street traders or as food businesses, raising questions over food hygiene controls and basic vetting, but insist the vehicles are regularly trading in the same spot.
Following renewed complaints, the council has now confirmed its teams are examining the situation.
A Fenland spokesperson said: “We are aware of concerns raised about ice cream vans operating near Wisbech Park and have received reports from members of the public.
"Our environmental health, licensing and Streetscene teams have been looking into these matters and are making enquiries with partner organisations, including neighbouring licensing authorities and the DVLA.”
The spokesperson added that the council has processes to act on concerns raised, “including enforcement action where required”, and said officers would “continue to assess the information received across our teams and ensure any necessary action is taken”.
The council also reiterated that anyone trading in streets or public spaces, including selling food or drink, must hold a Street Trading Consent, and directed traders to further guidance at www.fenland.gov.uk/streettrading.
Residents will be watching closely to see what action follows, but hope the council’s commitment to look into the complaints marks a turning point after what they describe as years of being “fobbed off”.
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