Institute of Licensing submits evidence to parliamentary inquiry on revitalising high streets

The Institute of Licensing (IoL) has submitted written evidence to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee’s inquiry into revitalising high streets, emphasising the need for stronger partnership working and a clearer distinction between place‑making and place‑management.

The submission argues that successful high streets “require both effective place‑making and effective place‑management,” with planning authorities shaping the physical environment and licensing authorities managing how activities operate within it. The IoL stresses that regeneration is rarely achieved through single interventions, noting that “successful places depend upon strong partnership working between planning authorities, licensing authorities, trading standards, police, businesses, communities and other stakeholders.”

Focus on collaboration rather than assumptions about business types

Responding to concerns about concentrations of vape shops, betting shops and barbers, the IoL cautions against assuming particular sectors are inherently problematic. The submission highlights that many operators act responsibly and that licensed gambling premises in particular are subject to strict safeguarding requirements under the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice.

Instead, the IoL argues that the more meaningful distinction is between legitimate businesses and those linked to organised crime, illicit tobacco or vape sales, counterfeit goods, money laundering or persistent non‑compliance. It states that “the appropriate response is effective intelligence‑led enforcement and compliance activity rather than assumptions based solely upon business type.”

Planning powers alone will not deliver lasting regeneration

The submission responds to Government proposals to introduce new planning controls for vape shops and Adult Gaming Centres, and to remove the Gambling Act 2005’s “aim to permit” principle. While recognising the intention to give councils greater discretion, the IoL warns that removing this long‑established presumption could “create significant regulatory uncertainty and undermine the consistency of gambling regulation across England and Wales.”

It emphasises that planning powers are only one part of the picture, and that effective management of high street activity ultimately relies on licensing, trading standards and the police.

Partnership-led approaches underpin successful regeneration

Drawing on its Partnership Charter for the Night Time Economy, the IoL highlights initiatives such as Purple Flag, Best Bar None, Pubwatch and Community Alcohol Partnerships as examples of how coordinated, multi‑agency approaches can improve safety, confidence and economic vitality. The submission notes that “successful places tend to be characterised by strong local leadership, a clear and shared vision, effective partnership structures and ongoing place management rather than one-off physical improvements.”

Kate Nicholls OBE, IoL National Chair, said:

“High streets are at the heart of our communities, supporting economic activity, culture, leisure and social connection. Their future depends not only on investment in buildings and public spaces, but also on how those places are managed over time.

The Institute’s submission highlights the important distinction between place-making and place-management. Planning authorities play a vital role in shaping places, while licensing authorities, alongside trading standards, police and other partners, help ensure those places remain safe, vibrant and sustainable.

Our response demonstrates that successful regeneration is most often achieved through partnership working, bringing together businesses, local authorities, regulators and communities around a shared vision. We hope the Committee will recognise the contribution licensing authorities make in supporting thriving town centres and high streets across England.”