Councils to get more powers to stop vape and betting shops, PM announces
Summary
The UK government plans to give local councils more power to control new vape and betting shops to help improve town centres. New shops selling e-cigarettes will need council permission, and some rules will change to make it easier to refuse new betting outlets. These changes aim to reduce illegal activity and revive high streets.Key Facts
- New vape shops will require local council planning permission in England.
- The government will tighten the definition of vape shops to close loopholes.
- The "aim to permit" rule will be removed, allowing councils across Great Britain more power to refuse betting shops and 24-hour gambling venues.
- Planning permission will be needed for new adult gaming centres in England.
- Councils can now extend closure orders for shops selling illegal tobacco or counterfeit goods up to 12 months (England and Wales).
- The National Crime Agency estimates £1 billion in criminal money is laundered annually via high street stores in the UK.
- The Prime Minister says these steps will help communities decide what businesses open in town centres.
- Some political parties warn that without tax relief and support for businesses, these new rules might cause more empty shops.
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