The pop-up vape shop which has been placed over disabled parking bays at Gloucester Docks does need permission from the authorities but because it is “very temporary” the City Council will not be taking any action against it.
The Neafs-branded temporary e-cigarette store appeared on the Peel-owned land last week sparking concern among residents and civic chiefs alike.
They said to sell such “unhealthy” product and while covering disabled parking is “disgraceful”.
Councillor Rebecca Trimnell (LD, Westgate) raised concerns about it to Gloucester City Council.
She said at the time that she was appalled by it.
“Morally, it feels completely wrong in what they are selling which are vapes and the environmental and health consequences,” she said.
“Not only that, they’ve gone and stuck it on disabled bays. They must have got a lot of money for having that pitch. I can’t understand it. Peel need to have a long hard look at themselves over this. It is disgraceful.”
A spokesperson for the City Council said officers investigated the issue and the operation does indeed need permission from them and it does not currently have it.
“However, due to its temporary nature they will not be taking any further action.
“After being contacted by Gloucestershire Live regarding the pop up retail unit at Gloucester Quays on Monday August 21, officers have now investigated the matter,” they said.
“The operation does need council permission, but does not currently have it.
“We understand that the operation is very temporary in nature and will be vacating the site in the near future.
“As such, the council does not plan on taking any further action at this time.”
Peel and Neafs have not responded to requests for comment.
Concerns over ‘lopsided’ planning committee with five members from one village
Tewkesbury Borough Council leaders are re-elected after ‘baptism of fire’ first year
Concerns as homes are being built near Cotswold beauty spot
Accountability fears over ‘one party Lib Dem state’ in Cheltenham
