WINDOW cleaners could soon need a licence to operate across North Ayrshire after the council’s Licensing Committee agreed to propose a resolution that would see the trade regulated in the same way as taxi drivers.

Consultation will take place this year but, if approved, the new rules are likely to come into force by the end of 2018.

This would make it a criminal offence to carry out the trade without licensing chiefs’ say so.

Chief Inspector Brian Shaw of Police Scotland reported that over the past 12 months there were 17 alleged offences committed by people who at time of detection gave their occupation as a window cleaner.

Offences include housebreaking (two offences), theft from motor vehicle and fraud, possession of drugs (three offences), serious assault (three offences, one involving carrying an offensive weapon), shoplifting, road traffic offences, drinking in public, stalking and indecent communication, culpable and reckless conduct, drink driving and an abusive behaviour offence (against a rival window cleaner).

It was argued that as window cleaners have access to properties they – like taxi drivers – should be fit and proper and have undergone the proper checks. Following last week’s decision, an advert will be taken out in the press and representations can be made before further discussion and a decision will be made at a later committee meeting.

If passed the new regulation is likely to come into effect on December 23.

Councillor Ronnie McNicol, Convenor of the Licensing Committee, said: “There will be a chance for anyone to make representations.”