Football supporters could enjoy later nights in pubs during this summer’s World Cup after the Government announced extended opening hours and urged councils to take a flexible approach to special event applications.
The measures are designed to allow fans to watch England and Scotland matches together in pubs, beer gardens and other venues throughout the tournament.
Under the plans, licensed premises will be able to remain open until 1am for England or Scotland knockout matches kicking off between 5pm and 9pm. For games starting between 9pm and 10pm, pubs will be permitted to stay open until 2am.
The Government is also encouraging local authorities to approve applications for special screenings and events wherever possible, particularly if matches go to extra time or penalties.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed has written to local leaders urging them to deal with Temporary Event Notice applications quickly and to support pubs seeking to host World Cup events.
Ministers say the aim is to ensure supporters can enjoy matches together while also providing a boost to the hospitality sector during what is traditionally one of its busiest periods.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said major football tournaments bring communities together and argued that unnecessary bureaucracy should not prevent people from gathering to watch games with friends and family.
The Government is also seeking to make it easier for pubs, cafés and restaurants to serve customers outdoors by reforming pavement licensing rules.
At present, businesses wishing to place tables and chairs outside often have to reapply for licences regularly, with renewals costing up to £350. Ministers say this creates unnecessary costs and paperwork for hospitality businesses.
Under the proposed reforms, pavement licences would be able to last for longer periods, reducing the need for repeated applications. The Government has also said it will consult on introducing a minimum licence length, although councils would continue to decide the duration of individual licences.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said councils should take a “common sense” approach when considering applications linked to major World Cup fixtures, particularly where concerns have been raised about outdoor screening events or pub garden opening times.
While councils will retain responsibility for making decisions and balancing the needs of residents and businesses, ministers have made clear they expect authorities to support reasonable applications where possible.
The announcement forms part of the Government’s wider efforts to support high streets and local hospitality businesses. Ministers say the measures complement broader regeneration initiatives, including the £5.8 billion Pride in Place programme, which is supporting projects in hundreds of communities across England.
With the World Cup now under way and knockout matches approaching later in the tournament, pub operators will be hoping the combination of later opening hours, outdoor licensing reforms and a successful run for the home nations helps deliver a busy summer for the hospitality industry.
