In a significant policy shift, local authorities across England, Wales, and Scotland are set to gain new powers aimed at curbing the proliferation of vape and betting shops in their communities. Announced by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, these measures hope to restore the character of high streets and address growing public concerns over the dominance of such establishments.
Local Authorities Take Charge
Under the proposed changes, councils will be able to refuse applications for new betting shops and adult gaming centres. Additionally, vape shops will now require planning permission, marking a departure from the previous stance that allowed them to open with minimal oversight. Burnham’s initiative aims to dismantle the “aim to permit” clause embedded in the Gambling Act 2005, which often compelled councils to approve gambling venues if they met licensing criteria.
This move follows a call to action from Burnham in January, where he, alongside nearly 300 other politicians and advocates, demanded a reevaluation of this rule. The aim is to give communities more control over their high streets, which have seen a decline in traditional shops while witnessing an influx of betting and vape establishments.
A Response to Public Concern
According to sources within Downing Street, the government is keen to address what they describe as two of the most visible indicators of high street decline. They acknowledge that locals have expressed genuine worries about the changing landscape of their communities. The consultation process for these new measures will be expedited, with a six-week timeframe, targeting an implementation date as early as 2027.
Prof. Will Jennings from the University of Southampton highlighted the urgency of this initiative, suggesting that Labour could face electoral repercussions if it fails to address the diminishing appeal of Britain’s high streets. He noted that while these reforms are a critical first step, they will not resolve all underlying issues, particularly given the rise of online retail.
Planning Permissions for Vape Shops
Currently classified similarly to shops, cafes, and banks, vape retailers can operate without requiring specific planning consent. However, the government plans to establish a distinct category for vape shops, allowing councils to scrutinise each application more closely. Additionally, there are proposals to refine the definition of a vape shop to prevent loopholes, such as convenience stores masquerading as vape retailers. Measures will also be implemented to restrict vape shops from opening near schools, addressing health concerns for young people.
Angela Rayner, the Communities Secretary, emphasised that empowering local leaders to reject inappropriate businesses is crucial for revitalising high streets. This approach seeks to address long-standing issues that have allowed unsuitable shops to proliferate without adequate community input.
The Uneven Spread of Vape Shops
Research from Health Equity North indicates that the distribution of vape shops is uneven, with deprived areas hosting three times as many as their affluent counterparts. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions to ensure that all communities can benefit from a healthier retail environment.
Burnham expressed his discontent with the current state of high streets, stating, “The rise of vape shops, betting shops, and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for. That’s not on.” He reiterated his commitment to improving high streets, describing these measures as a step towards restoring local character.
A Vision for Vibrant High Streets
These new regulations are part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing the aesthetic and functional appeal of high streets. Westminster aims to provide local leaders with templates for ideal shopping environments, showcasing successful examples of revitalised retail areas.
Dawn Butler, MP for Brent East, has been vocal about the economic implications of gambling shops, highlighting that some gaming machines can generate up to £35,000 annually. This figure starkly contrasts with the national living wage, underscoring the need for urgent action to mitigate the gambling industry’s influence on local economies.
Why it Matters
The proposed reforms represent a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle to reclaim high streets from the grip of betting and vape shops. By empowering local councils, these measures not only address immediate community concerns but also lay the groundwork for a more vibrant, diverse, and healthier retail landscape. As communities seek to reclaim their public spaces, the outcome of these initiatives could reshape the future of high streets across the UK, ensuring they remain places of social interaction and commerce rather than mere venues for gambling and vaping.
