Vape crackdown to give towns ‘power to turn things around’, Prime Minister says
Prime Minister announces new planning rules to let towns block vape shops and betting venues and revive high streets.Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced changes to planning policy that will give local councils greater control over new vape shops and adult gaming centres. By moving vape shops into a separate "sui generis" category and removing the "aim to permit" rule for betting shops, towns can now block or approve such developments. Burnham said the measures aim to help former industrial high streets that have been "hollowed out". The proposals have drawn mixed reactions: opposition figures like Sir James Cleverly blame Labour business rates, while industry groups such as the Betting and Gaming Council and the Independent British Vape Trade Association warn against lumping legitimate businesses with rogue operators. Supporters, including the Local Government Association, say the changes will empower councils to revitalise town centres.
(Source：Kent Online)
