Councils will gain new powers to limit the spread of betting and vape shops on their high streets under proposals announced by Andy Burnham. The measures would require vape retailers in England and Wales to obtain planning permission, while new rules affecting betting shops and adult gaming centres are set to apply across the UK, including Scotland.
The government briefing said local authorities would be able to reject applications for new betting shops and adult gaming centres where clustering or other local impacts could be demonstrated. For vape shops, the change from advertisements or simple business registrations to formal planning applications is intended to give councils greater control over location and concentration.
Downing Street indicated the changes could be implemented from the start of next year, subject to the passage of necessary instruments or rules. Officials described the measures as adjustments to the planning and licensing framework rather than a blanket prohibition, meaning operators will still be able to apply but councils would have clearer statutory grounds to refuse or condition developments.
The announcement is framed as a tool for high street management and local regeneration, enabling councils to address concerns about the impact of shop types that can cluster in particular areas. Businesses affected will need to prepare to submit planning applications where vape retailing is concerned and to respond to strengthened planning objections or licensing scrutiny for betting and gaming proposals.
Next steps set out by ministers include guidance to local planning authorities on how to apply the new powers and a timetable for implementation. Councils and retail operators have been advised to review existing permissions and upcoming applications so they can adapt to the revised planning and licensing environment once the measures take effect.
