Sheffield MP speaks out against mushroom expansion of vaping and “empty” barber shops
“I’m concerned about how quickly these types of shops are popping up and how this generates a feeling of community being taken over”
A Sheffield MP has spoken out against the mushroom expansion of vaping and “empty” barber shops - calling on ”local councils” to take control of vacant premises.
Labour MP Marie Tidball posted a video of herself speaking about the issue on Manchester Road in her Stocksbridge constituency.
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At a small precinct of shops along the town’s high street there are two barber shops within seven doors of each other and two vape shops - both of which have suddenly sprung up with two months of each other.
In the video the MP asks: “Are you sick of seeing vape shops, empty barbers and betting agents open on high streets here in our constituency?
“Like you, I’m concerned about how quickly these types of shops are popping up and how this generates a feeling of community being taken over.”
Marie says she is writing to local councils asking them to back Labour's new High Street Rental Auctions (HRSAs).
They allow local authorities to take control of persistently vacant commercial properties and auction leases for one to five years without landlords’ consent.
She added: “By using these powers, we can provide new shops and community spaces, supporting businesses and communities to access our high streets and create vibrant, bustling spaces you can be proud of.”