UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham Unveils Plans to Revive High Streets, Target Vape and Betting Shops

LONDON: British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to introduce a package of measures aimed at revitalizing the country’s struggling high streets, including tighter controls on vape shops, betting outlets and businesses associated with organized crime.

The measures, to be unveiled on Tuesday, are designed to give local communities greater influence over the types of businesses operating in town centres, while strengthening the powers available to police and local authorities to address problematic commercial activity.

Under the proposed reforms, the government plans to repeal existing rules that restrict local councils from refusing applications for new betting shops, even when there are strong objections from residents and communities.

The government also intends to require planning permission for new vape shops and adult gaming centres, giving local authorities greater control over their location and concentration in town centres.

Additional powers will be granted to police and local authorities to investigate properties suspected of links to organized crime. The maximum period for which premises can be closed under relevant orders will also be extended from six months to 12 months, according to the government.

The initiative forms part of Burnham’s broader economic and social agenda to support town centres and strengthen local communities. His government has already announced measures aimed at reducing household electricity costs, capping bus fares and lowering business rates for pubs, clubs and live-music venues.

The government says the latest proposals are intended to help reverse decades of decline on Britain’s high streets by encouraging a more diverse and sustainable mix of businesses while giving communities a stronger voice in shaping their local commercial environments.

The announcement comes as town centres across Britain continue to face pressure from changing consumer habits, the growth of online shopping and the decline of traditional retail businesses.

Burnham’s plans are expected to form a key part of the government’s wider effort to support local economies and make high streets more attractive places to live, work and visit.