The council is hoping to prevent its high streets from being overrun by non-retail businesses such as estate agencies and bureau de change.

Westminster City Council introduced the rules following a 27% increase in the number of estate agents in Westminster in 2015, the largest seen anywhere in London.

The ‘Article 4 Direction’ will now allow the council to limit particular industries from dominating retail space to make sure shopping districts have a wide range of businesses and retailers.

“Westminster is a wonderful patchwork of historic villages and local town centres and our high streets are the beating heart of each of those communities, treasured by residents and visitors alike,” said cllr Robert Davis, Westminster City Council deputy leader and cabinet member for built environment.

"In the last year, we have, for example, seen an increase in the number of estate agents in Westminster that has put the character of some centres at risk.”

Cllr Davis added that these measures would protect variety on the high street and improve everyone’s shopping experience.

“This is not a blanket restriction.

“Some financial services, like local bank branches, which provide valuable local services, will be encouraged, but if we do not act now, our high streets are under threat of being overrun. 

“The action we are taking will help us strike the right balance so that Londoners continue to have a range of shops and services on their doorstep.”