The Government has launched a consultation to explore new powers to make regulations on tobacco and vapes as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
Durham County Council (DCC) are interested in the views of local residents to inform a collective responsive to this consultation, including views from a range of professionals.
We need to ensure that there are supportive, smoke-free environments for those who are trying to quit smoking. We do not want to risk people continuing to smoke or returning to smoking.
We also want to ensure more outdoor smoke-free environments to reduce the harms associated with second-hand tobacco smoke, especially where children and families gather and where there is a case to be made to protect the workforce.
Therefore, we need to ensure that there is a balance in increasing smoke-free places to protect the health of non-smokers, particularly vulnerable groups, while also ensuring that those who want to quit smoking by using a vape are supported to do so within society.
We do not want children and young people to vape. While vaping is less harmful than smoking, it is not completely risk free. Important policies are needed to address some of the unacceptable promotion, packaging and marketing designed to appeal to children and young people.
Visit the Lets Talk County Durham page for more information and to have your say on this public consultation.
Closing date: 29th April 2026.
This consultation will close on 29th April 2026 to enable DCC to gather the information and respond to Government by 8th May 2026.
29/04/2026 – Town Council’s comments on this Consultation:
Bishop Auckland Town Council supports the aims of the Smoke‑free and Vape‑free Places consultation, particularly the intention to protect children, young people and medically vulnerable individuals from the harms of second‑hand smoke and vaping.
The Council recognises the public health benefits of extending smoke‑free environments in appropriate outdoor settings, such as areas frequently used by families and children.
The Council also supports a balanced approach which recognises that vaping can play a role in helping adults to quit smoking and should not unintentionally discourage smokers from making positive health changes.
Bishop Auckland Town Council therefore supports proposals that include flexibility for clearly defined exemptions, clear signage, and a focus on education and support rather than enforcement alone.
The Council welcomes Durham County Council’s commitment to ensuring that any expanded smoke‑free and vape‑free places are implemented fairly, proportionately, and with appropriate public engagement.