NEW proposals to hand more power to councils to prevent high streets being overrun by betting and vape shops have been welcomed by a local political group.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said proposals would fight back against town centres that had been "hollowed out".
However, both the Conservatives and Reform said the measures alone would not tackle the decline of retail areas.
But the local Labour branch in Burntwood said recent enforcement action demonstrated why greater measures were needed.
One shop in the town was shut down twice in six months after being found to be selling illegal items.
A spokesperson for Labour in Burntwood said:
"We have seen first-hand why stronger powers are needed.
"Shops selling illegal cigarettes and vapes have been closed following enforcement action, with one local premises having to be shut down for a second time within six months.
"The Labour Government is now proposing stronger powers for councils to control the growth of vape shops, betting shops and adult gaming centres, including requiring separate planning permission for vape shops and giving councils more ability to say 'no' where there are already too many.
"This is not about attacking legitimate businesses – it is about giving local communities more control over what happens on their own high streets, tackling illegal activity and creating the right environment for the shops, cafés, pubs and independent businesses we actually want to see thrive.
"For Burntwood, where we want to see real investment and regeneration in our town centre, these extra powers could make a genuine difference.
"More local control, stronger enforcement and a better high street for Burntwood."
