Newcastle Labour has welcomed new Government action to give local communities a stronger say over their high streets, including new powers to tackle the spread of vape shops, betting premises and adult gaming centres.
The measures, announced by the Prime Minister today, Tuesday 11 August, are designed to put power back into the hands of local people and councils after years in which communities have had too little influence over the businesses opening in their neighbourhoods.
Under the plans, new vape shops and adult gaming centres will require planning permission before opening, allowing councils and residents to have their say for the first time.
Councils will also be given stronger powers to prevent vape shops opening in inappropriate locations, including near schools, and to tackle the clustering of multiple vape shops on the same high street.
The Government also intends to scrap the Gambling Act’s outdated “Aim to Permit” rule, which currently restricts councils’ ability to refuse applications for new gambling premises even where there are significant concerns within the local community.
The changes will give councils greater freedom to decide whether additional betting shops and adult gaming centres are appropriate for their area.
Police and local authorities will also receive tougher powers to tackle rogue businesses suspected of links to organised crime. The maximum length of Closure Orders will be doubled from six months to 12 months, providing more time to investigate illegal activity and prevent businesses reopening while investigations are ongoing.
The Government will also work with councils over the next six months to improve the appearance of high streets, providing practical support on shopfronts, signage and the overall look and feel of town centres.
Leader of Newcastle Labour Group, Cllr Ged Bell, welcomed the announcement, saying:
“Our local high streets should be places that communities can take pride in, with thriving independent businesses, shops and services that local people actually want and need.
“For too long councils have had one hand tied behind their backs when residents have raised legitimate concerns about the number of vape shops, betting premises or adult gaming centres opening in their communities.
“These new powers will give local people a much stronger voice over what happens in their neighbourhoods and give councils like Newcastle the tools needed to support good local businesses, tackle rogue operators and help build high streets that people want to visit.”
The announcement follows further Government action to support local high streets, including a 20% cut in business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues across England from next year.
Newcastle Labour believes giving communities greater control, supporting responsible local businesses and investing in local places will be crucial to reversing the long-term decline experienced by high streets across the country.