High streets inquiry to probe rise of ‘unwanted’ shops and effectiveness of council powers

A new parliamentary inquiry has been launched to examine how England’s high streets can be revitalised, with MPs set to scrutinise the spread of “unwanted” retail such as betting shops, vape stores and so‑called fake barbers, and assess whether councils have the right tools to reverse decline.

The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee’s Revitalising High Streets inquiry will explore the impact these businesses have on community pride and the overall health of town centres. The committee says it wants to understand why certain types of premises proliferate in some areas and whether current planning and licensing frameworks allow councils to intervene effectively.

The inquiry will also look at wider approaches to regeneration, including the use of design codes, improved street furniture, and pedestrian‑friendly layouts. MPs will assess how far new or existing powers—such as High Street Rental Auctions, Compulsory Purchase Orders and the Community Right to Buy—can help local authorities reshape struggling high streets and bring empty units back into productive use.

Government support schemes will come under scrutiny too. The committee plans to examine the impact of recent business‑rates changes on small retailers and hospitality venues, alongside the government’s Pride in Place programme, which promises up to £20m for hundreds of areas over the next decade.

The inquiry is now accepting evidence, with submissions invited from councils, businesses, community groups and residents. The deadline for responses is 11:59pm on 7 September 2026.