A group of Mill Hill traders have promised to fight “ridiculous” regulations cracking down on street trading.

The rules, agreed by Barnet Council in Feb-ruary, require anybody wishing to put street stalls or furniture on pavements to apply for a licence, ranging from £200 to £1,800 per year.

A-board signs outside shops have been banned since 1988 and this law will now be enforced.

But 14 shop owners and managers from Bittacy Hill signed a petition entitled ‘Another kick in the teeth for small businesses’, arguing the rules are unfair and unnecessary.

The outcry follows an East Finchley campaign in May, when about 60 traders signed a petition arguing the fees would turn the area into a “ghost town”.

Property Express owner Ian Needleman, 46, who has put an A-board outside his business for 15 years, called the rules “ridiculous”.

He said: “The council said if I keep putting out my A-board it would be put it in the crusher, but if anyone comes along and tries to do that, they’ll be the ones going in the crusher.

“I don’t mind paying something, but they won’t let me do that. I’ve had that A-board for 15 years and it has never done anyone any harm.”

A council spokesman said: “Everybody whether they are pushing a buggy, using a wheelchair or simply cannot see very well, has the right to be able to get along the pavement without obstruction.

“The new licensing structure will ensure a clear and fair framework to regulate the street scene with a balance between the needs of premises and the rights of the pedestrian.”

Roy Steward, 53, has managed A&D High Class Fruiterers for 17 years. He now has to pay £300 every six months to display his fruit.

He said: “It is absolutely disgusting, but what can you do?

“I can’t even have a few Christmas trees out here in December without paying double, so it will be the first time in 35 years this shop has had no Christmas trees.”

The council is required by law to put all licence fee money towards administration costs. Since August 15, it has raised £6,600 from fees, but estimates its administration costs have exceeded £25,000.