The Local Councils Network has responded to Government plans to “save hollowed out high streets”, including by cracking down on vape shops and gambling.

Cllr Richard Wright, Chair of the Local Councils Network, said:

“All too often local communities know their once-cherished high streets are in a cycle of decline, but their councils have found themselves toothless to take action.

“We support making vape shops and adult gaming centres separate planning categories, giving local democratic representatives an opportunity to stop these businesses taking over high streets, crowding out the shops and services people actually want to see.

“We also back ending the current presumption in favour of new gambling centres in the planning system, which has blighted many communities, impacting on countless families.

“However, recent changes to the planning regime are yet to fully impact on our neighbourhoods and high streets – and in many cases they reduce councils’ ability to build the places their residents want to see. The devil will be in the detail on how all of this can transform high streets, and we therefore look forward to the Government consulting on its proposals so we can together bring about positive change.

“While the measures announced today are steps in the right direction, they don’t address most of the causes of high street decline.

“We look forward to working with the Government on its forthcoming High Street Strategy and discussing the extra powers local leaders require to revitalise their high street.

“Future high streets may focus on more than retail, but with local empowerment, investment and creativity, each one has the potential to be the unique and bustling centre of a strong community.”