Councils in England and Wales accused of excessive fees to run outdoor classes
Summary
Councils in England and Wales are charging high fees and requiring paperwork from people who run small exercise or community classes outdoors, even when these classes are free or ask only for donations. This has stopped some instructors from holding their classes, raising concerns about the fairness of these licensing rules.Key Facts
- Angela Brier-Stephenson was told to pay £1,200 a year to run her small yoga class on a beach, so she stopped running it.
- Some councils require hundreds of pounds in fees, paperwork, and first-aid certificates for small outdoor classes.
- These licensing rules began for commercial trainers but now apply to community groups like small singing choirs and qigong classes.
- Thanet council lowered fees from £1,200 to £300 for fitness activities starting in 2026.
- Bristol council offers discounts up to 75% for small businesses and charities but still charges fees for outdoor classes.
- Some instructors say fees make it too hard or expensive to continue their community classes.
- Councils say licensing helps ensure safety, insurance, and responsible use of public spaces.
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