Communities up and down the country will be handed greater powers when it comes to new gambling and barber shop proposals. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Civic pride starts from our high streets. People want clean streets, to feel safe when out and a good variety of shops and local amenities. Advertisement Hide AdAdvertisement Hide Ad“That’s why it matters that local people have the power to block unwanted shops and to take back control of our high streets. “I welcome reports that the government are looking to make changes to help improve high streets including reform of the Gambling Act 2005.