PLAN to restrict the unfettered spread of new vape or smoke shops was unanimously endorsed by Bayswater councillors this week, with the rule now off to the state government for a final decision.
The rule change would mean cigar stores, shisha bars, or shops that sell âsmoking related implementsâ would be classed as a ârestricted premisesâ giving council the power to keep them from opening in most areas.
It came about from a motion lodged by councillor Catherine Ehrhardt in late 2022, after sheâd seen a proliferation of vape stores open up including in sight of schools and near parks.
During the consultation period 26 people lodged supporting submissions and 16 were opposed.
Comments in favour included echoed concerns about vape shops near schools: âVaping is the next epidemic amongst young people and products [are] clearly targeted towards teenagers,â one commenter said.
A few of the objections were opposed to lumping in shisha bars with other types of smoking, arguing that shisha bars had a âsocioculturalâ element and âfor some groups of people, can be a safe social space without alcoholâ.
However a council report states the rule would only restrict new venues from opening, and existing authorised shisha bars can keep operating.
Cr Ehrhardt said after reading the arguments for and against, she was âvery happyâ to move ahead with the plan.
Cr Sally Palmer said schools would be âvery relieved to hear this type of motion is happeningâ.
Vapingâs become a major behavioural problem in schools, according to an article in the Medical Journal of Australia, with teachers reporting agitated and disruptive behaviour from vaping students.
The new rule requires amending Bayswaterâs Town Planning Scheme so it now requires approval from planning minister John Carey and the WA Planning Commission.
Due to a planning quirk new vape stores can still open in Morleyâs town centre, which has a unique zoning that allows other kinds of restricted premises like adult shops.Â
by DAVID BELL
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