Fife Pubs Get World Cup Late License Extension

Pubs across Fife will be permitted to extend their opening hours to screen specific World Cup matches this summer. The Fife Council's licensing board has agreed that licensed premises can stay open until 30 minutes after the conclusion of any games involving Scotland and England. This policy extends to the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final, with venues also able to apply for extended hours for other matches based on demonstrated local demand. Councillor Carol Lindsay highlighted that the decision prioritizes fixtures with Scotland and England due to anticipated higher attendance. Scotland's initial match against Haiti is scheduled for June 14 at 02:00, followed by games against Morocco on June 19 and Brazil on June 24, both starting at 23:00. To be eligible, venues must currently hold authorization for televised sport and entertainment. They will also be encouraged to implement a ticketing system. The depute clerk to the licensing board, Kimberley Langley, noted that venues are not obligated to use the extended hours and must adhere to their existing license conditions. Langley also confirmed that no fan zone applications have been received and that a repeat of Dunfermline Athletic's successful Euros screenings will not occur due to concerns about disruption to local residents. Applications for events like those potentially planned by Kirkcaldy ice rink require board approval and should be submitted promptly, as occasional licenses take six weeks to process. Board convener Councillor Tom Adams stated that this decision establishes a framework for future events, acknowledging that while not all parties may be pleased, the decision is fair and balanced.