Banbury MP welcomes re-think on town centre vape and betting shops
MP Sean Woodcock has welcomed plans he says will ‘breathe new life’ into Banbury’s town centre streets.
He said his Government’s plan will give the community a greater say over new vape shops, betting outlets and gaming centres. Police will be given more time to investigate ‘dodgy’ barber shops and other premises linked to organised crime.
The change comes as Britain’s former market towns are struggling for survival and gaining a reputation for not having enough to keep shoppers happy. Vape shops and betting offices are thought to be two unpopular features of the modern High Street.
Mr Woodcock says the measures will put local people and councils back in control. Vape shops will need planning permission and councils will be able to prevent them opening near schools.
“Time and again, people here in Banbury have told me how dodgy vape shops and rogue businesses have blighted our high streets and damaged pride in our town centres,” he said.
“Labour has listened, which is why we are giving communities a real say over what opens locally and councils the powers they need to take action.
“Together, we can support good local businesses, breathe new life into our high streets and build a more hopeful future for our area.”
A press statement said the Labour Government intends to scrap the outdated ‘Aim to Permit’ rule, making it easier for councils to reject new betting and 24-hour slot-machine shops where there are strong local concerns.
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 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.
Mr Woodcock believes the changes could make a real difference to high streets across north Oxfordshire by giving local people more influence over the businesses opening in their communities.
The announcement follows action to give families and businesses ‘more breathing space from cost-of-living pressures’, including capping bus fares at £2 and cutting business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues by 20 per cent from next year.