Licensed premises across Edinburgh have been granted an extension to licensing hours for the duration of the World Cup in June and July.
Edinburgh’s Licensing Board has approved recommendations to allow premises which hold a full premises licence which includes a provision to show televised sport to remain open until 30 minutes after the end of any World Cup match.
The move follows Scotland’s historic qualifying for the tournament – the first time since 1998 – and will let fans gather to watch the games, which will air late at night.
Scotland’s group stage fixtures have been announced as follows:
- 14 June – Haiti v Scotland – kick-off 0200 GMT
- 19 June – Scotland v Morocco – kick-off 2300 GMT
- 24 June – Scotland v Brazil – kick-off 2300 GMT
As well as celebrating Scotland’s involvement in the World Cup, it is hoped that the extension will benefit the city’s pubs and night time economy.
Licensing Board Convener Councillor Louise Young said:
We’re looking forward to a momentous occasion this summer, when Scotland participates in the World Cup, and we want to help everyone to enjoy the experience by coming together – whether it’s a city centre venue, or their local pub.
By agreeing to extend trading hours across all the city’s licensed premises which show sports, the Licensing Board is giving Edinburgh’s hospitality venues the opportunity to make the most out of the event, regardless of whether they are a club, pub, restaurant or hotel.
Licensed venues can open late for any match during the World Cup, meaning fans of any nationality can watch their team, recognising the wonderful diversity of our City.
License holders will soon be contacted by the Council and asked to indicate their intention to make use of the extension. Premises will be reminded to ensure adequate management arrangements are in place, and consider, where appropriate, providing additional stewarding.
The Board will continue to monitor operations and ensure that premises are acting responsibly during the duration of the World Cup, and can if required make adjustments to the provision.