PM Promises Revitalisation of Struggling High Streets with Action Against Vape and Betting Shops

In a significant move aimed at revitalising the nation’s high streets, the Prime Minister has announced a series of new powers that will allow local communities and councils to have a greater say in the types of businesses that can operate in their town centres. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reclaim high streets that have suffered from the unchecked proliferation of vape shops, betting establishments, and other businesses that do not serve the interests of local residents.

Restoring Local Control Over High Streets

The recently unveiled measures are designed to empower communities, providing them with a genuine voice in determining the character and offerings of their high streets. Among the key changes is the decision to abolish the outdated “Aim to Permit” rule in the Gambling Act, which has previously prevented councils from rejecting new betting shops and 24-hour gaming venues, even in the face of local opposition. This reform aims to halt the unchecked encroachment of these establishments on struggling high streets.

Additionally, the government will now mandate planning permission for the establishment of vape shops, enabling local authorities to oversee these businesses and prevent them from being situated in close proximity to schools. The criteria defining a vape shop will also be refined to prevent businesses from circumventing these new regulations by misclassifying themselves as general retailers.

Furthermore, Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs), which provide 24-hour access to gambling machines, will be subject to similar planning requirements starting next year. This shift comes in response to the rapid increase in vape shops and AGCs in town centres, which, unlike many other businesses, have been able to operate without oversight.

Addressing Organised Crime and Local Decline

Data from the Centre for Social Justice highlights a troubling trend, revealing a loss of nearly 1,800 pubs and bars across Britain since 2016, while the number of vape and tobacco shops has surged to nearly 2,200. Concerns have also been raised regarding the clustering of gambling establishments, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. For instance, within the London Borough of Brent, there are over 80 gambling venues, including multiple betting shops in close proximity to one another.

The new regulations will double the maximum duration of Closure Orders from six to twelve months, granting police and local authorities additional time to investigate businesses linked to organised crime. This measure aims to prevent illicit operations, from illegal vape shops to unlicensed barbers, from reopening before investigations conclude.

The decline of high streets has mirrored a broader sense of deterioration across Britain, with many communities feeling that their local environments have transformed beyond recognition. The Government’s initiative seeks to rectify this by granting residents a substantial role in shaping the future of their high streets.

Voices from the Community

Prime Minister Andy Burnham articulated the urgency of the situation, noting, “For many people, the high streets they grew up with have been hollowed out and become unrecognisable. The proliferation of vape shops and betting establishments has replaced the essential shops and community spaces that local residents desperately need.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring control to communities, allowing them to dictate what businesses are appropriate for their high streets.

Angela Rayner, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that residents are acutely aware when their high streets fail to meet their needs. “This government will not leave councils and communities powerless against everyday eyesores that detract from the character of high streets,” she stated, emphasising the importance of local leaders having the authority to reject unsuitable businesses.

Claire Ward, East Midlands Mayor, remarked on the economic implications of high streets being overtaken by undesirable businesses, highlighting the necessity for local stakeholders to collaborate in shaping their environments. She noted that the new announcements would enable communities to reclaim control and ensure a diverse array of businesses contribute positively to local economies.

Enhancing the Aesthetic Appeal of Town Centres

In conjunction with these regulatory changes, the Government plans to collaborate with local councils to enhance the visual appeal of high streets, restoring pride in town centres. Many areas have reported issues with unattractive shopfronts, garish signage, and oversized branding, contributing to an unwelcoming atmosphere at a time when online shopping is already exerting pressure on traditional retail spaces.

To address these concerns, the Government will outline clearer expectations for the design and appearance of shopfronts, working alongside the Planning Advisory Service to highlight successful examples from around the country. Over the next six months, councils will receive support to improve their high streets, drawing inspiration from successful initiatives like Cross Street in Oswestry and Keynsham High Street.

These new measures are part of a comprehensive effort to combat rogue businesses linked to organised crime, including a £30 million initiative targeting money laundering, tax evasion, and illegal employment. The Prime Minister has also introduced a 20% reduction in business rates for pubs, social clubs, and live music venues, funded through a review of reliefs for businesses that do not contribute positively to their communities.

In summary, this initiative represents a concerted effort by the Government to rejuvenate high streets across the UK, restore local pride, and empower communities to shape their environments for the better.