URL: https://councillors.knowsley.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=7979

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The decision is for the introduction of a policy that describes the approach that the Council will take to enforce legislation that prohibits the supply, in the course of a business, of single use vapes.   This is a key decision since businesses that will be subject to the policy are located throughout the Borough.  

Content: The decision is for the introduction of a policy that describes the approach that the Council will take to enforce legislation that prohibits the supply, in the course of a business, of single use vapes.   This is a key decision since businesses that will be subject to the policy are located throughout the Borough.               The Cabinet considered the report of the Assistant Executive Director (Neighbourhoods and Commercial Services), which:-   ·       sought approval of a policy that  set out the Council’s approach to the use of civil (financial) penalties in relation to offences associated with the supply of single use vapes; and ·       provided detail of the aims of the Single Use Vapes Enforcement Policy (“the Policy”) and the various options available to officers of the Council in dealing with non-compliance.   Councillor Mrs S Powell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, reported that the Policy had been consistent with the principles of good regulation and complements the Corporate Enforcement Policy. In this respect, all actions would be targeted, transparent, consistent, appropriate and fair. Councillor Powell reported that the Policy fulfils the Council’s obligation under the Regulations, to publish guidance about the use of civil sanctions and consult such persons as it considers appropriate before publication.   Councillor Powell highlighted that a consultation exercise had been conducted where the views of various stakeholders were sought and the draft policy was sent to Elected Members and key internal partners such as Legal and Public Health, in addition to external contacts such as the Chamber of Commerce were sent a copy of the draft policy that was also uploaded on the Council website to enable members of the public to comment. In this respect, the consultation period lasted for 8 weeks and ended on 26 November 2025.   Councillor Powell reported that as a result of the feedback received, the environmental impact in relation to disposal of single use vapes had been emphasised in the policy and possible sanctions on non-compliant tenant businesses in Council owned property discussed. Councillor Powell indicated that a number of comments supported the approach as described in the policy.   Councillor Powell indicated that if approved, Trading Standards officers would utilise the new powers, including the issue of civil penalties, when deemed appropriate.   RESOLVED – That the Single Use Vapes Enforcement Policy which is attached at Appendix A to this report be approved.  

Date of Decision: January 21, 2026