Crackdown on Vape and Betting Shops
Local communities will have a greater say over new vape shops, betting shops and adult gaming centres under plans announced by our Labour Government.
After all of our campaigning as a community, I am delighted to see new measures introduced to put local people and councils back in control of their high streets.
The Labour Government intends to scrap the outdated “Aim to Permit” rule, making it easier for councils to reject new betting and 24-hour slot-machine shops where there are strong local concerns.
Vape shops would also require planning permission, giving councils greater control over where they open and to stop them opening near schools. Adult gaming centres would also require planning permission under proposals due to come into effect at the start of next year.
The maximum length of Closure Orders will also double from six to 12 months, giving police and local authorities more time to investigate premises linked to organised crime, pursue prosecutions, and prevent rogue businesses – from illegal vape shops, and dodgy barber shops – reopening before investigations are complete.
The changes could make a real difference to high streets across Southgate and Wood Green by giving local people more influence over the businesses opening in their communities. The Conservatives failed to back Britain’s high streets and over 14 years they left many communities with empty shops and declining town centres.
The measures are part of Labour’s wider plan to support responsible businesses restore pride in local places and bring hope back to town centres.
