Councillors in talks about introducing a refreshment van to the Thatcham Broadway

A refreshment van is on the cards for Thatcham Broadway as councillors discuss the prospect of having food and drink available on market days.

The proposal has not yet been approved due to concerns over the placement of the van itself, as well as the duration of its stay.

The introduction of the van for was initially discussed in a planning and highways meeting but was referred to the town centre working party to pick up.

In the Thatcham working party meeting, worries arose over the damage to grass that the van may be sat on.

Additionally, there were concerns surrounding when, and for how long, the van would sit on the green.

Town clerk Mel Taylor said that the owner of the van is a Thatcham resident.

She said: “She approached us to set this up as her own business.”

There is potential for the van to also be a permanent fixture.

She added: “To make it viable for her, she would need to be there for more than just one day a week.”

Richard Crumly (Con, Thatcham Central) was in favour of having a refreshment service available.

He said: “I think it is a great idea, with tables and chairs on the pavement, somewhere to have a wine and jacket potato.

“I am just waiting to support it.”

However, Mike Cole (Lib Dem, Thatcham North East) said: “It’s a very good idea in principle.

“If we could find a different position for the van, I could be very much in favour of it.”