Local councils throughout Great Britain are set to receive enhanced authority to prevent the establishment of new betting shops, as part of government initiatives aimed at providing local authorities with increased control over businesses in town centers.
The proposed changes will eliminate the existing 'aim to permit' regulation, which currently limits councils' ability to reject applications for new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine venues. In England, any new adult gaming centers that wish to operate around the clock will also need to obtain planning permission prior to opening.
During an interview on BBC Breakfast, Housing Secretary Angela Rayner expressed that many individuals are frustrated by the proliferation of gambling establishments, particularly those located near schools, noting that some are associated with illegal activities and crime.
The National Crime Agency has reported that approximately £1 billion in illicit funds is laundered annually through high street businesses in the UK, often linked to counterfeit goods, tax evasion, illegal employment, and drug trafficking.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham commented that town centers have been significantly affected by years of decline, leaving many high streets unrecognizable to those who grew up in the area. He emphasized that he does not view this decline as unavoidable.
These proposals coincide with Burnham's UK tour, during which Downing Street has indicated he will be in a 'listening mode' as he develops a '10-year plan to restore hope.' Burnham stated that these measures would empower councils to decide which types of businesses can operate in town centers.
He also mentioned that the plans have been influenced by a series of BBC News investigations that uncovered organized crime on high streets, including illegal employment, money laundering, and the sale of illegal drugs and counterfeit products.
Burnham highlighted Operation Vulcan in Cheetham Hill, Greater Manchester, which successfully removed counterfeit goods and criminal activity, demonstrating what can be achieved through coordinated enforcement efforts.
In discussing police reform across England, he expressed his desire for a similar approach, advocating for robust neighborhood policing involving all relevant agencies to eliminate criminal activities that undermine communities.
However, the Conservative Party and Reform have criticized these proposals, arguing that they could lead to an increase in vacant shops unless tax relief is also extended to other small businesses.