The UK government plans to scrap the 'aim to permit' rule, which currently restricts councils from refusing new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine parlours. The move will give local authorities greater control over gambling businesses in town centres.
Under the new rules in England, venues offering round-the-clock access to gaming machines will need to obtain planning permission before opening. Housing Minister Angela Rayner told the BBC that many are frustrated by gambling outlets appearing 'even near schools', with some linked to illegal activity.
The National Crime Agency estimates that at least £1 billion in criminal proceeds is laundered annually through high-street businesses tied to counterfeit goods, tax evasion, illegal labour and drug trafficking. Prime Minister Andy Burnham described town centres as 'hollowed out' by decades of decline and refused to accept high-street degradation as inevitable.
Burnham is launching a nationwide tour in 'listening mode' as he works on a '10-year plan to bring back hope'. He noted the measures were shaped by BBC News investigations that exposed organised crime on the high street. The Prime Minister cited Operation Vulcan in Cheetham Hill, Greater Manchester, which cleared the area of counterfeit goods and criminal activity.
The Conservatives and Reform UK criticised the proposals, warning they will lead to 'even more empty' shops unless tax relief is offered to other small businesses.
