Councils are set to gain new powers to regulate the number of vape shops, bookies, and barbers in high streets. This decision comes after concerns were raised over the saturation of these businesses in our local communities. But what do shoppers think about this new development?
High streets are the heart of our towns and cities, providing a place for people to gather, shop, and socialize. However, in recent years, the rise of certain businesses has caused some concern. Vape shops, bookmakers, and barbershops have been popping up at an alarming rate, leading to fears that they are taking over our high streets and detracting from the traditional shops and services that make these areas unique.
In response to these concerns, the government has proposed new powers for councils to control the number of these businesses in high streets. This means that local authorities will have the ability to reject planning applications for these types of businesses if they feel there are already enough in the area.
The move has been welcomed by many, including shoppers. A recent survey conducted by the Local Government Association found that 63% of respondents believed there were too many vape shops, 68% felt there were too many bookies, and 59% thought there were too many barber shops in their local high streets.
There is growing concern that the presence of these businesses can have a negative impact on the community. Vape shops, for example, have been accused of promoting smoking to young people and contributing to the normalisation of smoking. Bookies, on the other hand, have been linked to problem gambling and the rise of online betting has only intensified these concerns. As for barber shops, some argue that the increase in these businesses has led to a lack of diversity in our high streets, with many traditional shops and services being replaced.
The new powers for councils aim to address these concerns and strike a balance between allowing these businesses to operate while also preserving the character and diversity of our high streets. It is not about banning these businesses altogether, but rather ensuring that there is a healthy mix of different types of shops and services.
But what do shoppers think about this development? The response has been largely positive. Many shoppers feel that there are already too many of these businesses in their local high streets and that the new powers for councils will help to address this issue. Some also believe that it will help to protect smaller, independent businesses and prevent the domination of larger chains.
One shopper, Jane, 34, from London, says, “I’ve noticed an increase in vape shops, bookies, and barber shops in my local high street and it’s starting to feel like they’re taking over. I think it’s great that councils will now have the power to control the number of these businesses and make sure we have a diverse range of shops and services.”
Others, however, have expressed concerns that limiting the number of these businesses could lead to a decrease in choice and convenience for consumers. Some also worry that it could discourage entrepreneurship and small businesses from starting up in high streets.
Despite these concerns, the general consensus among shoppers is that there needs to be a balance in our high streets and that this new measure could help to achieve that. It is also important to note that these powers are not just aimed at these three types of businesses, but also at other types of shops and services that may be overrepresented in a certain area.
The government’s decision to give councils more control over high street businesses has been met with support from shoppers. It is a positive step towards preserving the diversity and character of our high streets while also addressing concerns about the impact of certain businesses on our communities. With the right balance, we can ensure that our high streets continue to thrive and remain the heart of our towns and cities.