A small, independent bookshop has had tomes seized in a street raid by Westminster council.
Glenn Smart, manager of The Gilded Acorn on pedestrianised Portsmouth Street in central London, described the local authority’s move as “deeply distressing”.
The row centres on books put on display outside the shop on two narrow benches.
A Westminster council enforcement officer confiscated around 20 books and the two benches last Friday.
“This was a deeply distressing incident,” said Mr Smart.
“We’re a quiet, community-minded shop, not a corporate chain.”
He added: “For over three decades we’ve operated here, through recessions, lockdowns and constant economic pressure.
“But nothing prepares you for people coming through your door and stripping out your livelihood.”
The seizure has been raised with local councillors.
Westminster council warned the bookshop in May that it was not allowed to have its display outside in the street, despite nearby pubs having tables outside.
It enquired about applying for a licence for its benches but was told in 42 minutes that it could not get one on the basis that “a pavement licence cannot be obtained for the display/exposure/sale of books”
The bookshop, which was shortlisted this year for the Independent Bookshop of the Year award, has considered appealing and seeking legal advice.
“It’s galling,” explained Mr Smart.
“It’s a really tough time for small businesses, and for booksellers in particular.
“To think this is happening the same week end as the Bezos wedding is particularly tough – we were set up the same year as Amazon.com”.
The Standard understands that Westminster council is seeking to resolve the dispute which could see The Gilded Acorn being allowed to keep displaying books on the outside benches.
A Westminster council spokesman said: “Many businesses in this area use outdoor space for tables and chairs and everyone is expected to work with the council and each other fairly to maintain clear pavements.
“The council doesn’t want to confiscate books, it is a last resort, but we had little choice after the business repeatedly ignored council notices and engagement efforts.”
“We’re pleased we’re now working with The Gilded Acorn to see how their book display can be returned and this issue can be resolved.”
Pubs, cafes, bars, restaurants, snack bars, coffee shops and ice cream parlours can apply for a a pavement licence for removable furniture on the public highway to sell food and drink under the Business and Planning Act 2020,
The tiny bookshop says it has had to cancel an event launch of a paperback, New Methods for Women by Sharmadean Reid, on Thursday, due to the benches being taken.
It has run book events involving former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Sir Keir Starmer, Rachel Reeves, percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie, historian Sir Niall Ferguson and novelist Sir Ben Okri.
