High street strategy brings gambling, licensing and enforcement reforms into focus

The Government has unveiled Hope on the High Street, a new strategy aimed at revitalising town and city centres across England, but alongside the regeneration agenda are several significant proposals for licensing authorities, gambling regulators and the licensed trade.

Among the most notable announcements is a commitment to strengthen local authority powers over gambling premises. The Government says it will introduce Gambling Impact Assessments (GIAs), giving councils an additional evidence-based tool when considering applications for new gambling premises licences, particularly in areas identified as vulnerable to gambling-related harm.

The proposal forms part of a wider ambition to give councils greater influence over the make-up of their high streets and neighbourhoods. By enabling authorities to consider the cumulative impact of gambling premises in an area, the reforms could represent one of the most significant changes to local gambling licensing policy since the introduction of the Gambling Act 2005.

The strategy also reiterates the Government’s intention to take forward recommendations arising from the Licensing Taskforce. Ministers say they will launch a call for evidence on reforms designed to reduce licensing burdens on hospitality and night-time economy businesses, reflecting concerns that the current system may be overly restrictive for some operators.

In London, the Government plans to pilot new powers for the Mayor of London, including a potential “call-in” power for strategically significant licensing decisions. The proposal is intended to support a more joined-up approach to licensing across the capital and boost its hospitality, cultural and entertainment sectors.

Further regulatory changes are proposed for tobacco and vaping retailers. The Government has confirmed that powers contained within the Tobacco and Vapes Act could be used to establish a retail licensing scheme for tobacco, vaping and nicotine products, with consultation expected during 2027. For local authorities, this would create an additional licensing and enforcement regime affecting a growing presence on many high streets.

Enforcement powers are also set for review. The Government intends to consult on extending the maximum duration of closure orders available to police and local authorities, providing regulators with stronger tools to tackle premises linked to criminal activity and anti-social behaviour.