Ice cream truck to stay at Manly beach

Mobile ice cream and coffee vendor Big Manly Ice Cream survived a review of its trading licence by Auckland Council, and can continue to serve ice cream and coffee by Manly Sailing Club.

Council reviewed the licence following concerns raised by members of the public, which in turn sparked a petition with around 2096 signatures supporting the business (HM May 20).

Owners Jo Emms and Beth Leyland were relieved and happy to receive the decision on June 5.

The review considered each of the objections, including the suitability of commercial trading in a public space, the impact on the reserve, dunes and nearby residents, sign compliance and public safety relating to the power cable that runs between the sailing club and the van.

Some of the issues had already been dealt with by the couple, but changes were also made to the licence in response to the complaints.

This includes reducing the permitted trading hours, ensuring the business minimises any impact of its vehicles on the grassed area, and the provision of two waste bins (no use of public bins).

Competition with nearby businesses was a concern noted in particular by Hibiscus and Bays Local Board deputy chair Gary Brown, but the review notes that commercial competition is not a reason to cancel or amend the licence.

Emms says they are very pleased with the result and the amendments. They thank the public for their support through a stressful and worrying process.

“We have felt very loved and appreciated by our local community,” Emms says.