Britain hands local authorities greater control over gambling and e-cigarette outlets

Residents in Britain may soon have a greater voice in determining whether vape shops, betting shops, and adult gaming centres can operate on their local high streets, thanks to new measures unveiled by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

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These proposals aim to support communities in revitalizing their town centres, which the government claims have been severely impacted by years of decline and the proliferation of unwanted businesses.

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The Prime Minister's Office and 10 Downing Street released a statement titled "PM vows to save 'hollowed out high streets' with crackdown on vape and betting shops" on the home office website on Tuesday, outlining the measures.

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Under the proposed changes, councils will be granted more authority to reject new betting shops, while vape shops and adult gaming centres will be required to obtain planning permission before opening their doors.

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The government also intends to abolish the "Aim to Permit" rule within the Gambling Act, which currently restricts councils' ability to reject new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine shops despite strong local concerns.

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This change is designed to give residents and councils a greater say in what businesses can operate on their high streets, ultimately preventing the unchecked proliferation of betting shops in struggling town centres.

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Vape shops will also be required to obtain planning permission, including when they are proposed near schools, in an effort to increase community control over local businesses.

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The government plans to refine the definition of a vape shop to prevent businesses from evading the new requirements by masquerading as convenience stores or general retailers.

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Adult Gaming Centres, which offer adult-only access to gambling machines, will also require planning permission under the proposed changes, expected to take effect at the beginning of next year.

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Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the changes aim to restore community control over high streets that have undergone significant transformations over the years.

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Burnham expressed his commitment to improving Britain's high streets, stating that the rise of vape shops, betting shops, and rogue operators has replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people desire.

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He emphasized that the government is dedicated to giving communities a genuine say in what opens on their high street and putting local people back in control.

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According to Burnham, high streets are the heart of local communities, but they have been in decline for too long, and the government is committed to restoring them and bringing back hope across Britain.

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The government is also proposing to double the maximum length of Closure Orders from six to 12 months, giving police and local authorities more time to investigate premises linked to organised crime.

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This extended power could be used against businesses such as illegal vape shops and "dodgy barber shops", allowing authorities to pursue prosecutions and prevent businesses from reopening during ongoing investigations.

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Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Angela Rayner noted that residents are well aware when their high streets are no longer working in their favour.

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Rayner acknowledged that problems such as unwanted vape shops and betting shops, neglected shopfronts, and a lack of community control have built up over years, but the government is committed to empowering councils and communities to address these issues.

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The government plans to collaborate with councils to enhance the appearance of high streets, including shopfronts, signs, and other features that can make town centres less welcoming.

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By working with the Planning Advisory Service, the government aims to identify examples of thriving town centres and provide councils with practical guidance on improving their local high streets.

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These proposals are part of the government's broader plan to restore pride in local communities, shift decision-making from Westminster to local areas, and encourage people to return to town centres.