Crackdown on vape shops and bookies as Burnham gives councils power to choose what is on their high streets
Councils gain power to block vape shops and betting outlets under Burnham's plan to revitalize high streets.Summary
The government, led by Andy Burnham, proposes giving local councils stronger powers to block new betting shops and vape stores, abolishing the 2005 “aim to permit” rule that forced councils to approve gambling licences. Vape shops will need planning consent from 2025, and the definition of a vape store will be tightened to prevent circumvention. 24‑hour slot and fruit‑machine venues will also require planning approval. New design guidelines will curb garish neon signs and oversized logos, while police may shut “dodgy” premises for up to a year to investigate organised‑crime links. Burnham says the measures return control to communities and revive high streets, a goal welcomed by the Centre for Social Justice but criticised by shadow local government secretary Sir James Cleverly and Conservatives, who argue the rules and business‑rate hikes will further empty high streets.
(Source：The Independent)
