New proposals from the government to give councils more control over town centre businesses have put Weston-super-Mare’s high street squarely in the spotlight. The changes, welcomed by the town’s MP, would require new vape shops to obtain planning permission and bolster powers relating to betting shops and adult gaming centres.
Local concerns meet national policy
The proposals follow concerns raised by local people about a perceived proliferation of vape shops and a narrowing of choice on the high street. Weston-super-Mare’s MP, Dan Aldridge, has backed the move, saying it responds to issues he brought to ministers after canvassing residents earlier this year.
"People in Weston told me loud and clear that they want fewer vape shops and a high street that offers more for our community," Mr Aldridge said. "I took those concerns directly to Ministers, and I'm really pleased that Labour has listened and is giving councils new powers to act."
Councils would be able to consider the impact of new businesses on town centres and on areas near schools before granting permission, under the proposals. The government has also said it will strengthen measures that allow authorities to act where premises are linked to criminality.
What the changes would do
At the core of the package are planning and enforcement measures aimed at giving local authorities greater discretion. Key elements outlined by the government include:
- Requiring new vape shops to obtain planning permission;
- Strengthening powers around betting shops and adult gaming centres;
- Extending the maximum length of Closure Orders from six months to 12 months to give councils and police more time to address premises linked to criminal activity.
Local traders and residents have previously voiced mixed views on how to revive Weston-super-Mare’s high street: some want more variety and family-friendly outlets, while others argue that any change must balance regeneration with support for existing small businesses. The new powers are being framed by supporters as returning control to local communities.
Practical implications for Weston-super-Mare
Requiring planning permission for vape shops could mean councils are better placed to manage where such stores open, particularly in close proximity to schools and family areas. Strengthened controls on betting and gaming premises are also intended to tackle clusters of outlets that some residents say contribute to antisocial behaviour.
However, these changes will have practical consequences for business owners. Those proposing to open vape shops would need to allow time and resources for planning applications, and existing operators may face new scrutiny. Local councils will need to decide how to apply the new provisions to support balanced regeneration while protecting livelihoods.
| Measure | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Planning permission for vape shops | Allow councils to consider impact on town centre mix and proximity to schools |
| Stronger powers for betting & adult gaming | Reduce clustering and potential links to criminal activity |
| Closure Orders extended to 12 months | Give authorities and police longer to act on problematic premises |
For Weston-super-Mare, which has seen a number of regeneration projects and council-led refurbishments in recent months, the timing of national policy change is significant. Local leaders will have to weigh the opportunities to shape a high street that meets residents’ expectations against the administrative burden of additional planning controls.
Voices from the community
Mr Aldridge said he had heard directly from residents during consultations earlier this year, and that the responses highlighted concerns about the rising number of vape shops and a desire for greater variety in the town centre. He described the proposals as "about putting local people back in control" and said Weston has "huge potential".
As national proposals are considered, the focus will shift to how North Somerset Council and local stakeholders translate new powers into policy and decisions on the ground. For shoppers, families and small businesses on Weston-super-Mare’s high street, the coming months may bring noticeable change — both in what appears on the shopfronts and in how those decisions are made.
