Prime Minister Andy Burnham has confirmed a major crackdown on so-called "dodgy" high street businesses, including barbers, vape shops, and nail salons. Under new proposals, police will be able to shut down these premises for up to a year, extending the current maximum closure order from six months to twelve. The move is designed to give detectives more time to investigate premises linked to organised crime, according to the government.
What the new powers mean for high streets
The changes, first announced by Burnham's predecessor Sir Keir Starmer, will see the maximum length of closure orders extended. This means that businesses suspected of being involved in criminal activity can be closed for a full year while investigations take place. The government, now led by the Makerfield MP, says this will help tackle the rise of rogue operators that have blighted town centres across the country.
Communities and Local Government Minister Angela Rayner emphasised the importance of giving local communities more control. "People know when their high street isn't working for them," she said. "Whether it's the vape shop or betting shop that's opened with no say from locals, the shopfront that's seen better days, or the sense that nobody's in control. These problems have built up over years, but this government won't leave councils and communities powerless to crack down on everyday eyesores that blight our high streets."
Burnham's vision for revitalising town centres
Prime Minister Burnham added: "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."
Burnham stressed that the new measures are about putting communities back in control. "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," he said.
Reaction and implications
The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from local leaders and community groups, who have long campaigned for stronger action against businesses that undermine the character of high streets. The extended closure orders are seen as a practical tool to disrupt criminal networks that use legitimate-looking storefronts as fronts for illegal activities.
However, some business groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact on legitimate traders who may be caught up in investigations. The government has assured that the powers will be used proportionately and only where there is clear evidence of criminality.
These reforms are part of a broader package of measures aimed at revitalising high streets, including giving councils more powers over planning and licensing. The government says it is committed to working with local authorities to ensure that the new powers are implemented effectively.
