Since becoming MP, one of my priorities has been to regenerate our high streets.
As part of this I’ve been campaigning for reforms to betting centres, and working with Cumbria Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen for Mayor of Cumbria to crack down on vape shops. So I’m really pleased to see that the Government is bringing in new powers to address theses issues.
For years, adult gaming centres and vape shops have been creeping onto high streets in our towns and our councils have been powerless to stop them – even when residents don’t want them there.
The new powers the Government is bringing in will help stop the spread and start to make space for the shops and services our communities need.
There’s more needed to help turn things around – and more changes to come – but I’m pleased to see Andy Burnham focussing on this issue and practical changes that can be made.