England to Restrict New Vape and Betting Shop Openings

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Scotland vape display ban

Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced on August 11, 2026, a crackdown on the unchecked spread of vape stores and betting shops across England. The measures grant local councils planning powers to block new openings, aiming to reverse the decline of hollowed-out high streets.

Under the new rules, vape shops will no longer be allowed to open without specific authorization. The definition of a vape shop will also be tightened to prevent business owners from bypassing the regulations by claiming to operate general convenience stores.

The policy shift follows data highlighting the changing makeup of British town centers:

  • Since 2016, Britain has lost nearly 1,800 pubs and bars.
  • The number of vape and tobacco shops has risen to more than 2,200.
  • In the London Borough of Brent alone, there are over 80 gambling venues, including 10 betting shops within a single 10-minute walk in Harlesden.

To address these clusters, the government will scrap the Gambling Act’s “Aim to Permit” rule, which previously prevented councils from blocking compliant betting shop applications. Additionally, Adult Gaming Centres will require planning permission starting next year.

“The rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for,” Prime Minister Burnham said. “We’re putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street.”

While local authorities welcomed the changes, some vaping industry members expressed concern. They argue that because the planning rules only apply to new businesses, the government should instead implement the sales licensing provisions of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 to regulate both new and existing retailers.

Matthew Ma
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