UK gives councils more power over betting, vape shops
UK introduces measures to give local councils control over betting and vape shops to revitalize high streets.Summary
The UK government, led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, has announced new measures to grant local councils greater authority over the establishment of betting shops, vape shops, and adult gaming centers. These policies aim to address the decline of high streets by allowing communities to have more input on what businesses open locally. Councils will gain the power to refuse new betting shops and require planning permission for vape shops and adult gaming centers, particularly near schools. The government also plans to abolish the Gambling Act's 'Aim to Permit' rule, which previously limited councils' ability to reject such businesses. Additionally, closure orders for problematic businesses will be extended from six to 12 months to combat organized crime and illegal operations. Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Angela Rayner emphasized the need for community control over high streets, which have become unrecognizable due to unchecked business proliferation. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to restore pride in local communities and shift decision-making from Westminster to local areas.
(Source：Punch)
