New powers have been announced by the Prime Minister today, 11 August, to address the spread of vape stores, betting shops, and other businesses on high streets. The measures aim to give local people and councils more control over what businesses can open in their town centres.
The government intends to revoke the Gambling Act's "Aim to Permit" rule, which currently limits councils' ability to refuse new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine shops. This change would provide communities and councils with a stronger say over whether new betting shops are suitable for their area.
Additionally, planning permission will be required for vape shops, allowing local people and councils to have a say on their opening, particularly near schools. The definition of a vape shop will also be tightened to prevent businesses from circumventing these new rules. Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs), which offer up to 24-hour access to gambling machines, will also require planning permission under proposals set to take effect early next year.
The maximum length of Closure Orders for premises linked to organised crime will double from six to 12 months. This will give police and local authorities more time to investigate and prevent rogue businesses, including illegal vape shops, from reopening before investigations are complete.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that the government is "putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street."