Sir, I have been saddened to read the Tenby Observer's recent coverage of the debate over street traders. It seems that all of the arguments put forward so far have been negative, reactionary and showing clear vested interests on behalf of those that have made them. I believe that the arrival of street traders to Tenby is a positive sign and that Tenby could well do with an injection of the type of innovation, imagination and excitement that they bring. In a climate of increased competition from European holiday destinations, it is more important now than ever that Tenby looks forward and embraces diversity and development. A far braver action to take, rather than pandering to the shopkeepers, who would happily maintain an increasingly stale status quo, which in the long run will prove harmful to their businesses, would be to welcome and regulate the street traders. The presence of street traders in the town means that Tenby has more to offer tourists, which benefits everyone. By charging traders a special levy for operating in Tenby the council could benefit from more revenue and established traders' claims of 'free- riding' newcomers would be placated. Street traders, many of whom have been brought up and live locally, demonstrate an optimistic enthusiasm which Tenby would be lucky to benefit from. If their presence means a little more competition for established traders and means that some will have to experience the pain of change, then I believe this is price worth paying.
Ky P. M. Wright