Britain moves to curb rogue businesses and expand police powers under new high street strategy

Britain’s new Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to unveil plans on Tuesday to tighten controls on vape shops, betting outlets and other rogue businesses as part of a broader effort to revive town centres after decades of decline, his office said Monday.

The proposals would give local communities a greater role in deciding what businesses can open on their high streets and would expand the powers of police and local authorities to tackle premises linked to organised crime.

Under the plan, the government would revoke a rule that currently limits councils’ ability to refuse new betting shops, even when there are strong local objections.

New vape shops and adult gaming centres would be required to obtain planning permission before opening.

The package would also extend the time available for police and local authorities to investigate properties suspected of being connected to organised crime. The maximum duration of orders allowing authorities to close such premises would increase from six months to 12 months.

Burnham’s initiative follows a series of other measures aimed at easing pressure on households and supporting local businesses, including cuts to taxes on domestic electricity bills, caps on bus fares, and lower business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues.

The government has presented the measures as part of a wider strategy to strengthen local economies and restore confidence in Britain’s town centres.