Communities gain power to block vape shops and save pubs in £5bn plan
Communities to share £5bn government funding boost
- The government has unveiled an investment of up to £5 billion for its new 'Pride in Place' programme, aimed at revitalising high streets, parks, and public spaces across the UK.
- The funding includes £3.5 billion for 169 areas over a decade, an existing £1.5 billion for 75 areas, and an immediate £1.5 million for 95 other locations to upgrade public amenities.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said local residents, described as those “with real skin in the game”, will be central to deciding how these funds are utilised.
- The initiative grants communities enhanced powers to safeguard local pubs and libraries, and to block the establishment of unwanted betting shops, vape shops, and fake barbers.
- The announcement has been welcomed by health organisations, with Dr Eman Zied Abozied highlighting the importance of tackling “unhealthy amenities”.