Local Vape Action expands to Maidstone after compliance boost
February 17, 2026
Local Vape Action launch in Maidstone (Photo: Handout)
A new Local Vape Action (LVA) pilot has launched in Maidstone following earlier schemes that delivered higher compliance rates and reduced illegal vape sales elsewhere in Kent.
The initiative, which went live on 13 February, brings together Kent County Council Trading Standards, Kent Police, community safety teams, public health officials, Maidstone Borough Council and the vape sector, including the Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA), to tackle illegal products and promote responsible retailing.
The expansion follows pilots in Tunbridge Wells and Ashford, with Trading Standards reporting compliance rates of 90 per cent with the single-use vape ban in Tunbridge Wells – around 10 per cent higher than in non-LVA areas. Authorities have also seen a reduction in reported illegal vape sales since the pilot began.
Consumer research commissioned ahead of the Maidstone launch found strong public backing for the scheme, with 85 per cent of residents supporting the initiative and 84 per cent saying they would report illegal vape sales if they knew action would be taken. However, 69 per cent said they were aware of illegal products being sold locally, underlining the scale of the challenge.
Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone and Malling, said illegal vaping was a growing concern among constituents, particularly regarding youth access.
“That is why initiatives like Local Vape Action are so important,” she said. “By bringing together local authorities, enforcement teams and community partners, this project shows how targeted, locally led action can address specific problems and deliver real results on the ground.”
Jim Whiddett, operations manager at Kent Trading Standards, said the programme was helping support responsible retailers.
“By working together, we can have a positive impact and reduce the risk of illegal and potentially dangerous vapes being sold in Kent,” he said.
The LVA model combines retailer engagement, Challenge 25 compliance checks, enforcement action and community outreach, including school visits and high street events.
Gillian Golden, chief executive of the IBVTA, said the vape industry welcomed the expansion.
“Vaping is now the most popular and effective way for adults who smoke to quit, and most retailers want to do the right thing and follow the rules. This collaborative LVA approach with local partners will offer practical support so that more businesses sell responsibly,” she said.
