Motion seeks restrictions on vape shopfronts in Mayo

A MOTION seeking restrictions on vape shopfronts will come before a meeting of Mayo County Council this afternoon.

Councillor Marie Therese Duffy is calling on the local authority to consider and introduce the following actions regarding vaping retail shops:

(1) To restrict the use of bright neon signs, cartoon graphics and products aimed at children or other product imagery on the exterior of vaping retail shops.

(2) Mandate that all vape shop windows be covered or display only neutral signage in line with tobacco product restrictions.

(3) Introduce guidelines for plain storefront designs (e.g. black and white lettering, no product advertising).

(4) Mandate that vaping products be kept out of view in retail outlets, e.g. when behind the counter or in closed containers.

In advance of today's discussion, Councillor Duffy received a written reply from management.

It explained: 'The planning legislation which regulates the of use of premises for retail does not differentiate between various retail activities.

'As such, the conversion of a premises from one form of retail to another is considered to be exempted development and does not fall within the remit of the planning authority to direct or control.

'If any external changes are made to a building which is either a listed building or which materially alters the building (changes the proportions, openings, roof height, materials) in an Architectural Conservation Area as defined in a statutory Plan, this may require planning permission.

'Advertising structures/signage are also covered by regulations but do not extend to colour/imagery or window treatments, etc.'