Andy Burnham says high streets have been 'hollowed out' over 'decades of decline' as he vows to crack down on spread of vaping shops and bookies

By MARTIN BECKFORD, POLICY EDITOR Published: 22:30, 10 August 2026 | Updated: 22:30, 10 August 2026 Andy Burnham has vowed to save high streets that have been 'hollowed out' by vape shops, bookies and rogue businesses. The Prime Minister pledged a crackdown on lax planning rules that have been blamed for the decline of much-loved town centres. He also called for action to improve the appearance of storefronts that No 10 said had been blighted by 'garish neon signs' and 'oversized logos', putting off potential customers. Mr Burnham, who has returned from his week-long holiday abroad and will embark on a 'summer tour' of the UK on Tuesday, said: 'For many people, the high streets they grew up with have been hollowed out and become unrecognisable over decades of decline. The rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for. 'That's not on. I said we would improve Britain's high streets, and that's exactly what we are starting to do. We're putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street. Local councils will be given the powers they need to rein in unwanted shops and bring town centres back to life.' Communities Secretary Angela Rayner – who has herself vaped for several years but is said to have quit recently – added: 'People know when their high street isn't working for them. Whether it's the vape shop or betting shops that's opened with no say from locals, the shopfront that's seen better days, or the sense that nobody's in control.' Under the new Government's plan, it will become easier for councils to refuse permission for new betting shops to open when there are concerns locally. Ministers will revoke the 'Aim to Permit' rule introduced when Tony Blair's Government – in which Mr Burnham served – liberalised gambling. A vape shop in Manchester, where Andy Burnham served as mayor. Its bright signage has been criticised by local residents So-called Adult Gaming Centres, which offer slot machines up to 24 hours a day, will also require planning permission. Vaping shops will also have to apply for planning permission while the definition will be tightened to prevent them getting round the rules by claiming to be convenience stores. The maximum length of Closure Orders for rogue shops linked to organised crime - such as barbers - will also double from six to 12 months. The move, first announced by Sir Keir Starmer's administration, will give police and local authorities more time to investigate. Downing Street said the Government will also work with councils to improve the appearance of high streets and help restore pride. But shadow Communities Secretary Sir James Cleverly said: 'Labour's business rates hikes have hollowed out our high streets, driving out the shops people want and leaving empty units for whoever is left standing to fill.'