The UK government plans to provide local councils with enhanced powers to regulate the opening of new vape and betting shops, as part of an initiative to revitalize high streets. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that town centers have been significantly impacted by decades of decline, leading to changes that make them unrecognizable to many.
The proposed changes to planning law will require all new vape shops to seek permission from their local council before opening in England. The definition of a vape shop will also be tightened to prevent businesses from circumventing regulations by labeling themselves as general convenience stores. These measures are intended to give councils greater control over the types of businesses permitted in town centers.
Additionally, a rule known as "aim to permit," which limits councils' ability to refuse new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine establishments, will be scrapped across Great Britain. New powers will also be introduced requiring planning permission for adult gaming centers, which offer round-the-clock access to gambling machines, in England. The government also intends to extend closure orders for mini-marts and vape shops found to be selling illegal tobacco, with potential closure periods of up to twelve months in England and Wales.
These policy announcements come as Prime Minister Burnham undertakes a tour of the UK, described as being in "listening mode" as he develops a "10-year plan to bring back hope." The government's move addresses concerns about the impact of a rising number of vape and betting shops on the character of high streets, with Burnham noting that these establishments have often replaced community services and spaces that residents desire.
The National Crime Agency estimates that illicit activities, including the sale of counterfeit goods, tax evasion, illegal employment, and drug supply, result in at least £1 billion of criminal cash being laundered through high street stores annually. The government's proposed measures aim to combat such issues and restore local communities' control over their high streets.