The government has also said it will consult on measures to prevent vape shops opening near schools. "For too long, local people and councillors have felt powerless as unwanted vape shops and betting arcades popped up on our streets without any real local consultation. Betting and vaping industry react to changesA representative of the Betting and Gaming Council said it supported action against criminal operators and backed a stronger local voice, but disputed the suggestion that betting shops were expanding unchecked, saying around 3,000 had closed since 2019. A spokesperson said: "It is wrong to lump highly regulated, licensed betting shops together with rogue or criminal businesses. Betting shops still support 37,500 jobs, bring vital footfall to neighbouring businesses and, for many customers, are valued community hubs.”