The viral “Spudman” secures an apology from the council after fighting to protect his potato stall of 22 years.
The council planned to replace his trailer. They wanted a flower bed instead. This threatened his business. Newman has four million followers online. He said he might leave Tamworth.
A petition to keep his stall got 100,000 signatures. He met with the council’s chief executive. He called the man “very nice.” The council apologized to Newman. They lacked proper communication, they admitted.
They will look for his old contracts. This will ensure his stall can stay. Newman said this made him happy. He wants to remain in Tamworth. The flower bed plan is still uncertain.
The council will talk to engineers and builders. They will assess possible solutions for Newman. The petition shows strong public support. People may not want the flower bed. Newman needs planning permission now.
He wants a permanent container for his stall. The council promised to help him with this. He finds the paperwork confusing. The chief executive was very apologetic. Newman sells potatoes five days a week.
His stall is near St Editha’s Church. He supports his nine children with his business. The stall gets global attention and long queues. He feels the stall is his livelihood. The council wants to improve the square.
Stephen Gabriel is the council’s chief executive. He said their discussion was positive. They are looking into past contracts. They will improve communication in the future. They want to work with local businesses.