Following first-round wins for England and Scotland, both teams are well placed to progress beyond the group stages of the World Cup. While the football implications may be clear, the licensing position for licensed premises is more complex.

What are extended hours?

New legislation has been introduced allowing licensed premises to trade for extended hours when England or Scotland progress beyond the group stages. For the group stages themselves, it is business as usual, but, come the knockout stages it could be party time*.

(*in some circumstances).

What are the hours?

For matches from the round of 32 onward, kicking off between 5:00pm and 9:00pm, licensing hours are extended from 11:00pm to 1:00am and for games commencing between 9:00pm and up to 10:00pm, licensing hours are extended from 11:00pm to 2:00am.

Fixtures outside these times, which might well include Scotland or England, are not covered by the Order. Premises will need a Temporary Event Notice (“TEN”) if their Premises Licence does not currently authorise the relevant hours.

Does the Order apply to all premises?

The Order applies to premises that are already permitted under their Premises Licence to trade until 11:00pm for on-premises sale and supply of alcohol and the provision of late-night refreshment. This remains subject to any licensing conditions.

What should venues do to prepare for matches beyond the group stages?

Venues are encouraged to:

• Review their Premises Licence to confirm whether the venue is covered
• Plan staffing and crowd management for the additional hours
• Consider submitting a TEN where the Order does not apply, noting that deadline for TENs is rapidly approaching
• If in doubt, speak to a member of our licensing team

If you need guidance or advice on the Order or alcohol licensing, we’re here to help. Please get in touch with Leigh at leighschelvis@schofieldsweeney.co.uk.