Nearly seven in 10 people (68%) believe their local high street has deteriorated over the past decade, with the proliferation of vape shops emerging as a leading concern, according to new polling by Whitestone Insight for the Freedom Association. Only 11% of respondents reported an improvement.
Vape Shops Top List of High Street Problems
When asked to name the biggest problems facing their high streets, 47% of people said there are too many vape shops – second only to empty and boarded-up premises (50%). In comparison, 34% were concerned about crime and anti-social behaviour; 27% said there are too many barbers; and 18% complained of too many nail bars and beauty salons.
David Campbell Bannerman, chairman of the Freedom Association, said: "For many people, vape shops have become a visible symbol of what has gone wrong on Britain's high streets." He expressed concern about the loss of "unique character" in communities and the potential for "money laundering" on the high street.
Public Backs Council Powers to Cap Vape Shops
The poll found overwhelming support for giving local councils the authority to cap the number of vape shops. Nearly nine out of 10 (87%) backed such powers, with only 7% opposed.
Campbell Bannerman added: "The public increasingly believes that thriving local businesses have been replaced by a growing number of outlets which add little to the wider health and prosperity of the high street. People want bustling town centres with a diverse range of shops, cafés and independent retailers. Instead, many feel they are witnessing a gradual decline marked by shuttered premises and the relentless spread of vape shops. The message from this poll is clear. Voters want councils given the powers to protect the character of their high streets before more damage is done."
Political Reaction and Proposed Solutions
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: "Councils are right to demand action. These shops are spreading across our high streets like a rash, hollowing out the independent retailers and family businesses that give town centres their character." He pledged a Conservative government would crack down on "loopholes" exploited by organised crime groups and "give police the powers and funding to intervene."
Gary Grant of the Institute of Licensing said: "Public concern about the rapid growth of vape shops reflects a wider need for stronger local oversight. While the Government is proposing to implement a new licensing regime for vape premises, there is currently no clear timetable for delivery. Introducing targeted licensing controls will give councils the ability to manage compliance, address unlicensed activities and better ensure high streets serve local communities. This would support legitimate businesses, protect consumers, and help restore confidence in town centres."
Government Response and Funding
A Government spokesperson said: "High streets are the beating heart of our economy and the centre of our communities, which is why we’re backing them. To help them flourish we’re investing £5.8billion across England to revitalise communities and prevent the spread of eyesore shops, including tougher rules to give local leaders more control over vape stores in their area."
The Government also highlighted new High Street Innovation Partnerships, backed by £301million in funding, as part of efforts to support town centres.
