UK councils to gain more power over vape and betting shops

The UK government is set to enhance the powers of local councils, enabling them to better regulate the proliferation of vape and betting shops on high streets. Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced plans that would require new vape shops to obtain planning permission, a move aimed at curbing their unchecked expansion.

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the rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for

Furthermore, the government intends to scrap a rule known as "aim to permit." This rule currently limits councils' ability to refuse applications for new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine arcades across Great Britain. The proposed changes would also mandate planning permission for new adult gaming centers. These measures are part of a broader government effort to revitalize town centers, which have suffered from decades of decline and are increasingly characterized by a rise in "rogue operators."

BBC News investigations have highlighted issues such as shops selling illegal cigarettes and vapes, facilitating drug sales, enabling illegal work, and suspected money laundering. The National Crime Agency estimates that at least £1 billion in criminal cash is laundered annually through high street stores connected to the sale of counterfeit goods, tax evasion, and illegal activities. Burnham stated that the rise of vape and betting shops has displaced the community-focused businesses and services that residents desire.

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That's not on. I said we would improve Britain's high streets, and that's exactly what we are starting to do. We're putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street.

In response, Conservative shadow communities secretary Sir James Cleverly criticized the proposals, suggesting they could lead to more empty shops without adequate tax relief for other small businesses. He argued that Labour's previous increases in business rates have already contributed to vacant storefronts. The government, however, maintains that these new powers will put communities back in control and give local people a greater say in the character of their high streets.

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Unless the government takes steps to support the high streets and hard-working businesses, Labour's increases in planning regulation will just mean more empty and boarded up shops.