Local authorities in England, Wales, and Scotland are set to gain significant new powers to regulate the proliferation of vape and betting shops, a move aimed at revitalising high streets and addressing community concerns. Announced by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, these changes could begin to take effect as early as next year.
Strengthening Local Control
Under the proposed regulations, councils will have the authority to reject applications for new betting shops and adult gaming centres. Furthermore, vape shops will now require planning permission, allowing local authorities to assess each application on its merits. This shift marks a substantial departure from the existing “aim to permit” rule established in the Gambling Act 2005, which mandated that councils approve applications meeting licensing requirements.
Burnham has long advocated for greater local control over high streets, where traditional shops and services have dwindled, making way for an influx of vape and gambling establishments. “The communities should have a stronger voice regarding what occupies their high streets,” he remarked, highlighting the need for a more balanced retail environment.
A Response to Public Concerns
The move coincides with growing public dissatisfaction regarding the state of high streets across the UK. A government source indicated that the rise of vape and betting shops is among the most visible indicators of decline in these areas, prompting local residents to express their worries. A fast-tracked consultation will be conducted over six weeks, with the aim of implementing these changes by early 2027.
Prof. Will Jennings from the University of Southampton noted that while the new measures represent an essential first step, they do not encompass the entire solution to the challenges facing high streets. With online retail now accounting for almost one-third of all sales in the UK, he stressed the importance of addressing broader issues impacting local economies and community perceptions.
Redefining Vape Shops
Currently classified alongside shops, cafes, and banks, vape shops can open without prior planning applications. The government plans to create a distinct planning category for these establishments, enabling councils to evaluate applications individually and reject those deemed unsuitable for their areas. Additionally, discussions are underway to tighten the definition of a vape shop, ensuring that convenience stores cannot masquerade as vape retailers. Provisions will also be introduced to prevent vape shops from opening near schools.
Communities Secretary Angela Rayner remarked on the necessity of these changes, stating, “We are equipping local leaders with the power to reject what does not belong on their high streets, alongside the tools to transform their environments.”
Addressing Economic Disparities
The rise of vape shops has not been uniform across the UK, with research from Health Equity North indicating that deprived communities have three times the number of vape shops compared to wealthier areas. Burnham expressed concern about the transformation of high streets into unrecognisable spaces dominated by vape and betting shops, stating, “We need to reclaim our high streets for the shops and services that communities truly need.”
The new measures will also pave the way for ongoing improvements to the aesthetic and functional aspects of high streets across the nation. Local leaders will be encouraged to adopt best practices from successful high street models to enhance their shopping areas.
Why it Matters
The introduction of these regulations comes at a crucial time when high streets are facing unprecedented challenges. By allowing local authorities to exercise greater control over the establishment of vape and betting shops, the government is not only addressing the visible decline of these areas but also empowering communities to shape their environments according to their needs and preferences. This initiative represents a vital step towards fostering healthier, more vibrant high streets that can support local economies and enhance quality of life for residents.