Dundee Council backs stronger vape shop controls
Dundee City Council has unanimously backed Liberal Democrat calls for tougher regulation of vape retailers across the city.
At a meeting of the City Governance Committee on 20th April 2026, councillors from all parties agreed to a motion from Councillors Daniel Coleman and Michael Crichton to press the Scottish Government for new powers to better control the number, location and operation of vape shops.
Proposing the motion, Councillor Daniel Coleman said :
“We are seeing a rapid growth in vape shops across our communities, and the current system simply doesn’t give councils the tools to manage that effectively. We need stronger powers to protect public health, particularly for young people.”
Councillor Michael Crichton, who seconded the motion, added :
“This is about getting ahead of the issue. A proper licensing system would allow councils to take a more proactive approach, rather than relying on enforcement after problems arise.”
The motion highlighted growing concern over the visibility and accessibility of vaping products to young people, warning that current laws rely too heavily on enforcement and do not give councils enough proactive control.
Councillors are now calling for a national licensing scheme—similar to alcohol sales—alongside stronger enforcement powers and full funding to support local authorities.
The council also agreed to contact Scottish local government body COSLA to push for a coordinated national approach.