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The government's plan to abolish a controversial rule has been hailed as a victory for local democracy by an MP.
The 'Aim to Permit' rule, which limited councils’ ability to block the opening of adult gaming centres (AGCs), was highlighted in Whitby last year after one was approved despite strong opposition.
Alison Hume, Labour MP for Scarborough and Whitby, has backed the rule to be scrapped.
She said: "I’m incredibly relieved the flawed ‘Aim to Permit’ rule is set to be abolished.
"Since we saw an adult gaming centre open in Whitby, despite absolutely nobody wanting it, I’ve campaigned hard for exactly this change.
"Adult Gaming Centres are disproportionately clustered in the country’s most deprived communities, and local people had little say over whether they opened."
The reforms will also require new vape shops to receive planning permission.
Additional powers will enable councils to tackle rogue businesses linked to organised crime, with Closure Orders increasing from six to 12 months.
Angela Rayner, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, said: "People know when their high street isn't working for them.
"Whether it’s the vape shop or betting shops that's opened with no say from locals, the shopfront that's seen better days, or the sense that nobody's in control."