Burnham to give councils more powers to block vape and betting shops
Summary
Burnham’s new policy gives local councils the power to reject applications for new betting shops and to require planning permission for vape shops, effectively scrapping the “aim‑to‑permit” rule of the Gambling Act 2005. The move, announced by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, is part of a broader effort to curb the spread of vape and betting outlets that have crowded high streets, replacing traditional shops and services. A fast‑tracked consultation will run for six weeks, with the aim of implementing the measures by the start of 2027, giving communities a stronger say over the character of their main shopping areas.
(Source:The Guardian)