The controversial Spark container village on Piccadilly will not have to provide a rent bond or guarantor for their new lease.

The requirements were agreed in February by Executive Councillor Nigel Ayre as part of a package aimed at securing taxpayers interests.

The Spark owners had promised a share of profits on the scheme when, in 2016, they first promoted the idea of moving second hand shipping containers onto the Piccadilly site.

The profits never materialised and there were delays in making rent payments and in fulfilling planning conditions.

Other causes of concern related to the appearance of the site – which is located in a Conservation Area – and the effect on nearby residential properties.

Yesterday Cllr Ayre caved into pressure and ditched the conditions which had been aimed at securing the councils financial interests.

He was warned by lawyers that, under current government COVID regulations, the Council might be unable to take back possession of the site even if rent arrears built up.

Currently the site is occupied on a “tenancy at will” basis.

The decision has drawn criticism from other traders and professionals one of whom has called for an inquiry into the whole affair (left).