Agenda Document Pack - Licensing Board - 19/03/2026
Moray Council · 19 March 2026
Back to Licensing Board — 19 March 2026 and its agenda
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Licensing Board Thursday, 19 March 2026 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of the Licensing Board is to be held at Council Chambers, Council Office, High Street, Elgin, IV30 1BX on Thursday, 19 March 2026 at 14:00. BUSINESS 1. Sederunt 2. Declaration of Member's Interests 3. Arrangements for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Report by Clerk to the Board 5 - 48 Page 1
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GUIDANCE NOTES * Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests - The Chair of the meeting shall seek declarations from any individual or political group at the beginning of a meeting whether any prior decision has been reached on how the individual or members of the group will vote on any item(s) of business on the Agenda, and if so on which item(s). A prior decision shall be one that the individual or the group deems to be mandatory on the individual or the group members such that the individual or the group members will be subject to sanctions should they not vote in accordance with the prior decision. Any such prior decisions will be recorded in the Minute of the meeting. Page 2
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MORAY COUNCIL Licensing Board SEDERUNT Councillor Peter Bloomfield (Chair) Councillor Sonya Warren (Chair) Councillor James Allan (Member) Councillor Neil Cameron (Member) Councillor Tracy Colyer (Member) Councillor David Gordon (Member) Councillor Scott Lawrence (Member) Councillor Ben Williams (Member) Clerk Name: Lindsey Robinson Clerk Telephone: 07966 120593 Clerk Email: committee.services@moray.gov.uk Page 3
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Report to: Special Moray Licensing Board Meeting Date: 19 March 2026 Report by: Clerk to the Board Author: Sean Hoath Contact Email: licensing@moray.gov.uk Subject: Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 – Arrangements for the FIFA World Cup 2026 1. PURPOSE ☒ For Decision ☐ For Information 1.1 The purpose of this report is to invite the Board to consider opening hours for licensed premises during which the FIFA World Cup is played and televised during the period 11 June 2026 to 19 July 2026. 2. SUMMARY 2.1 The FIFA World Cup is being played and televised during the period 11 June 2026 to 19 July 2026. Scotland has qualified for the tournament for the first time since 1998. In light of the consequent demand, the Board is being invited to consider licensed premises hours. 3. RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Board: i) Considers whether to grant any general extension to licensing hours during the period of the FIFA World Cup or any specific matches as set out in Appendix 1. ii) Considers the views expressed by licence holders who responded to an informal consultation on a proposal of a general extension and guidance as set out in Appendix 2; iii) Considers, as an alternative to a general extension of hours, whether to issue guidance for applicants for extended hours and occasional licences as suggested at Appendix 3 or as the Board sees fit; and iv) Agrees, if an extension is granted or guidance is issued, to instruct the Clerk to advertise details of the same on the Council’s website and give Item 3. Page 5
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appropriate notices to the Chief Constable and all licence holders by means of a newsletter to be issued following the Board meeting. Sean Hoath Senior Solicitor 4. BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT 4.1 Under section 67 of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 (“the Act”), the Board has the power to grant a general extension to licensing hours where it is considered appropriate to do so in connection with a special event of local or national significance. A general extension can be for such period(s) as the Board may determine. 4.2 The upcoming FIFA World Cup is considered to be an appropriate special event in terms of section 67 of the Act. 4.3 Should the Board decide to generally extend hours then upon making a general extension determination the Board must – (a) Give notice of the determination to – (i) the appropriate Chief Constable, and (ii) the holders of premises licences and occasional licences in respect of premises to which the determination applies, and (b) publicise it in such manner as the Board sees fit. 4.4 A general extension of hours would not require any licensed premises to be open for the sale of alcohol during the period of extension of licensed hours specified i.e. there is no duty to trade to the extended hours. This would remove the need for individual premises to apply for extended hours unless they wish to open outwith the terms of the general extension. 4.5 In relation to normal licensing hours the Board’s policy states that, “The Board will generally consider applications for up to 15 hours in any 24 hours period as being reasonable. Any application for more than 15 hours will be the subject of additional scrutiny and applicants may be expected to justify their requests.”. The policy goes on to say that early opening is considered to be opening before 11:00am and late opening is considered to be opening after 1:00am. The Board considers it will be difficult to justify opening prior to 9:00am or after 3:00am under normal circumstances. 4.6 Many premises currently in operation do open until 1:30am. A few open until 3:00am. Some premises, particularly distilleries (for tours) and food oriented premises do currently open at 9:00am. Given the international significance and timings of the event the Board should consider whether it justifies departure from what is considered to be normal for this limited period. 4.7 In relation to unlicensed premises, or in respect of a function outwith a general extension of hours at a members’ club subject to a premises licence, it will be necessary to apply for an occasional licence rather than extended hours. The processing and determination of an occasional licence differs from that for an extension of hours. The application is sent to consultees and publicly advertised so that anyone can object or make representations on Page 6
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an occasional licence application. If there are no objections or representations then the occasional licence must be granted. As a result of the process to be followed, it may take longer to process an occasional licence application. 4.8 In accordance with the Board’s existing scheme of delegation where there are no objections or representations on an application, any occasional licence or extended hours would be granted under delegated powers. However, in the event that adverse comments are received in respect of any particular application then it is intended that the application would be referred by email to the Convenor (joint Convenors) and Vice Convenor for determination. In the event that any member is unavailable at the time, the scheme allows for any Board member to be chosen in their place. 4.9 Following Scotland qualifying for the FIFA World Cup there has been significant media coverage and interest both nationally and locally although the event is still some time away (11 June 2026 to 19 July 2026). There is attached at Appendix 1 a schedule of the matches from which it can be seen that most of the matches are in the early hours of the morning owing to the time difference between the UK and America/Mexico/Canada. 4.10 After an informal discussion with members, officers prepared a general extension proposal and guidance, welcoming views on whether such a general extension would benefit business and the wider Moray community, with the feedback to be reported at this meeting. The informal consultation proposal and guidance is attached at Appendix 2. 4.11 Officers then proceeded to carry out an informal consultation during the period 12 February 2026 to 1 March 2026. Officers contacted all on sales licensed premises holders in Moray (currently 225), the Chief Constable and advertised the informal consultation to the public at large on the Council’s website. Feedback was sought on a general extension to the on sales hours for all on sale alcohol licensed premises within the whole Moray area for the duration of the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament as follows:- 1. When showing live FIFA World Cup 2026 football matches within the premises to customers on sale hours will be extended to 30 minutes beyond the end of the relevant match with such 30 minutes to include last orders and drinking up time. 2. In any event and irrespective of whether the final whistle has gone and the match is over or not there should be a cut off time – again to include last orders and drinking up time of 05:00. 4.12 25 responses to the informal consultation have been received. 2 licensed premises holders have indicated that they do not intend to utilise any general extension of hours. 23 responses are in favour of a general extension of hours per the informal proposal. 21 licensed premises holders submitted their view by completing the draft style Notice of Intention provided as part of the proposal. Analysis of the 21 draft style Notices of Intention received indicate support for trade during the Scotland and England matches as well as the later semi final and final stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament. 4.13 A representative of the Chief Constable responded to the informal consultation on 4 March 2026. A copy of the response is attached at Appendix 4. The Chief Constable is generally supportive of a general extension to hours being granted by the Board. Page 7
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4.14 Lastly the Scottish Government has very recently issued guidance specific to the World Cup under s.142 of the Licensing (S) Act 2005. A copy of the guidance is attached at Appendix 5. As this constitutes statutory guidance specifically for extended hours for the FIFA World Cup the Board is legally obliged to take this into account when making any decision. In the guidance at page 4 the Scottish Government guides Licensing Boards to consider utilising the power to generally extend licensing hours “as a matter of course”. Officers have reviewed the guidance which also contains a set of suggested standard conditions for any general extension to licensing hours. Officers believe that the draft proposal produced covers matters referenced in the guidance. 4.15 Given the national and local interest in the FIFA World Cup tournament and in view of responses received to date from the trade, recommendation is made for a general extension to licensing hours. The recommendation suggested is attached at Appendix 2 or as the Board sees fit. 4.16 In the absence of a general extension of hours, individual licensed premises would be required to apply for extended hours, which can be granted if the Board considers it appropriate to do so in connection with a special event or occasion to be catered for on the premises, or a special event of local or national significance. For unlicensed premises operators would need to apply for an occasional licence. In determining an extended hours or occasional licence application the Board is to take into account any notice of objection from the police and/or any report from the Liquor Licensing Standards Officer (or the public for occasional licences only). 4.17 The Board is therefore invited to consider whether to issue guidance as to what, if anything, the Board would consider suitable hours for extended hours or occasional licence applications. The guidance could be in general terms or on a match by match basis. Appendix 3 provides suggested guidance for applicants. Issuing guidance in respect of hours would also assist the Clerk and staff to determine whether it becomes necessary to refer any particular application back for determination under the Board’s scheme of delegation. 5. PROPOSALS 5.1 It is proposed that the Board considers whether to grant any general extension to licensing hours during the period of the FIFA World Cup or any specific matches. 5.2 In the absence of any general extension of hours it is proposed that the Board considers whether to issue hours by way of guidance for applicants for extended hours and occasional licences. 6. SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS 6.1 The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the recommendations are agreed: SUBJECT YES NO Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan) x Policy and Legal x Page 8
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Financial x Risk x Staffing x Best Value and Transformation x Property x Information Communications Technology/Digital x Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact x Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact x 6.2 Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP)) Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement through Best Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set out in its strategic plans. a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Council Plan strategic priorities: ☒ Tackle Poverty and Inequality. ☒ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy. ☒ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities. b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following Local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities: ☒ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy ☐ Building a better future for our children and young people in Moray. ☒ Empowering and connecting communities. ☒ Improving wellbeing of our population 6.3 Policy and Legal Section 67 of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 (“the 2005 Act”), gives the Board power to grant a general extension to licensing hours where it is considered appropriate to do so in connection with a special event of local or national significance. A general extension can be for such period(s) as the Board may determine. Where the Board makes such a determination, in accordance with section 67(4) of the Act the Board must – (a) give notice of the determination to – (i) the Chief Constable, and (ii) the holders of premises licences and occasional licences in respect of premises to which the determination applies, and (b) publicise it in such manner as the Board sees fit. In relation to normal licensing hours, the Board’s Statement of Policy effective for the period 30 November 2023 to 29 November 2028 (“the Board’s Policy”) sets out; “6.6.1 General Operating Hours Page 9
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Licensing hours must be detailed in the operating plan of every premises. The Board will generally consider applications for up to 15 hours in any 24 hours period as being reasonable. Any application for licensed hours for more than 15 hours will be the subject of additional scrutiny and applicants may be expected to justify their requests. The Board does not wish to unnecessarily inhibit the development of a thriving and safe evening and night-time local economy, which is important for investment, employment, and tourism.”. In relation to a general extension of hours, the Board’s Policy sets out; “6.6.8 General Extension of Hours On occasions of national, local or possibly international significance the Board has the authority to apply a general extension of licensing hours. The Board will notify those affected of the granting of any general extension of hours. Such grants will always be posted on the Licensing Section of the Moray Council’s website. In addition, in respect of either sector or local specific grants, the Board will notify premises individually. The Board may also publish details in local newspapers as it sees fit.”. Granting a general extension of hours will mean a temporary suspension of the Board’s policies in relation to hours in general. The Board’s Policy applicable to licensed premises on outdoor areas (at 6.4) are not affected by the proposed general extension, outdoor areas should still close by 22:00. The provisions for children and young persons within existing premises licences are not changed or enhanced by the proposed general extension of hours. The specific event referred to in this report, live World Cup football, is not deemed to be a relevant specific function within an operating plan. The Board’s Policy on Children in Licensed Premises at 6.2 remains applicable. The Board’s Policy on Late Opening Licence Conditions at 6.6.4.2 (i.e. applicable to any premises that wish to remain open after 1:00am) will apply to any general extension of hours granted by the Board. In any decision making process, the Board must seek to promote the 5 licensing objectives set out in section 4(1) of the 2005 Act which are; (a) preventing crime and disorder, (b) securing public safety, (c)preventing public nuisance, (d)protecting and improving public health, and (e)protecting children and young persons from harm. 6.4 Financial None arising from this report. One off Costs: Page 10
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Service Area Budget Budget Years Proposed Spend this Year Virement From Other Comments N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Annually Recurring Costs: Service Area Budget With Effect From Annual Net Impact Virement From (if applicable) Other Comments N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 6.5 Risk It is unknown whether any possible extended hours will increase the risk of adverse impact on the licensing objectives. Given the Chief Constable’s most recent annual report the risk appears low. 6.6 Staffing At present no extended hours or occasional licence applications have been received but applicants will be waiting to first see whether a general extension is granted by the Board for the event. Staff time and therefore money would be saved by granting a general extension of hours as this would ultimately mean it should not be necessary to process what is likely to be many applications in a short period. Given the statutory fee for extended hours and occasional licence applications is fixed at £10, the Board loses money on the processing of every application. 6.7 Best Value and Transformation None arising from this report. 6.8 Property None arising from this report. 6.9 Information Communications/Technology/Digital None arising from this report. 6.10 Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact No equalities issues identified other than the usual considerations for the determination of any application. The use of a general extension of hours and/or guidance on extended trading hours may encourage increased trading and benefit businesses. 6.11 Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts None arising from this report. 7. CONSULTATION 7.1 This report has been prepared after informal consultation with licensed premises holders, occasional licence holders, the Chief Constable and with the general public at large. Any comments made have been incorporated into the report. Page 11
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8. BACKGROUND PAPERS 8.1 None arising from this report. Page 12
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Date (UK) Day Kickoff (UK) Home Team Away Team Stage Home Nations Likely Finish (UK) Finish Date (UK) Covered by Existing Hours Proposed Hours Covered by Proposed Hours 2026-06-11 Thursday 20:00 Mexico 🇲🇽 South Africa 🇿🇦 Group A FALSE 22:00 2026-06-11 Y None Y 2026-06-12 Friday 03:00 South Korea 🇰🇷 UEFA playoff D 🏳 Group A TRUE 05:00 2026-06-12 N 01:00 T-F N 2026-06-12 Friday 20:00 Canada 🇨🇦 UEFA playoff A 🏳 Group B TRUE 22:00 2026-06-12 Y Y 2026-06-13 Saturday 20:00 Qatar 🇶🇦 Switzerland 🇨🇭 Group B FALSE 22:00 2026-06-13 Y 04:00 F-S Y 2026-06-13 Saturday 23:00 Brazil 🇧🇷 Morocco 🇲🇦 Group C FALSE 01:00 2026-06-14 Y Y 2026-06-13 Saturday 02:00 USA 🇺🇸 Paraguay 🇵🇾 Group D FALSE 04:00 2026-06-13 N Y 2026-06-13 Saturday 05:00 Australia 🇦🇺 UEFA playoff C 🏳 Group D FALSE 07:00 2026-06-13 N N 2026-06-14 Sunday 02:00 Haiti 🇭🇹 Scotland 🏴 Group C TRUE 04:00 2026-06-14 N 04:30 S-S Y 2026-06-14 Sunday 18:00 Germany 🇩🇪 Curacao 🇨🇼 Group E FALSE 20:00 2026-06-14 Y Y 2026-06-14 Sunday 21:00 Netherlands 🇳🇱 Japan 🇯🇵 Group F FALSE 23:00 2026-06-14 Y Y 2026-06-15 Monday 00:00 Ivory Coast 🇨🇮 Ecuador 🇪🇨 Group E FALSE 02:00 2026-06-15 N 01:00 S-M N 2026-06-15 Monday 03:00 UEFA playoff B 🏳 Tunisia 🇹🇳 Group F FALSE 05:00 2026-06-15 N N 2026-06-15 Monday 20:00 Belgium 🇧🇪 Egypt 🇪🇬 Group G FALSE 22:00 2026-06-15 Y Y 2026-06-15 Monday 17:00 Spain 🇪🇸 Cape Verde 🇨🇻 Group H FALSE 19:00 2026-06-15 Y Y 2026-06-15 Monday 23:00 Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 Uruguay 🇺🇾 Group H FALSE 01:00 2026-06-16 Y Y 2026-06-16 Tuesday 02:00 Iran 🇮🇷 New Zealand 🇳🇿 Group G FALSE 04:00 2026-06-16 N 01:00 M-T N 2026-06-16 Tuesday 20:00 France 🇫🇷 Senegal 🇸🇳 Group I FALSE 22:00 2026-06-16 Y Y 2026-06-16 Tuesday 23:00 Inter-confederation playoff 2 🏳 Norway 🇳🇴 Group I FALSE 01:00 2026-06-17 Y Y 2026-06-16 Tuesday 05:00 Austria 🇦🇹 Jordan 🇯🇴 Group J FALSE 07:00 2026-06-16 N N 2026-06-17 Wednesday 02:00 Argentina 🇦🇷 Algeria 🇩🇿 Group J FALSE 04:00 2026-06-17 N 01:00 T-W N 2026-06-17 Wednesday 18:00 Portugal 🇵🇹 Inter-confederation playoff 1 🏳 Group K FALSE 20:00 2026-06-17 Y Y 2026-06-17 Wednesday 21:00 England 🇬🇧🏳 Croatia 🇭🇷 Group L TRUE 23:00 2026-06-17 Y Y 2026-06-18 Thursday 17:00 UEFA playoff D 🏳 South Africa 🇿🇦 Group A TRUE 19:00 2026-06-18 Y 01:00 W-T Y 2026-06-18 Thursday 20:00 Switzerland 🇨🇭 UEFA playoff A 🏳 Group B TRUE 22:00 2026-06-18 Y Y 2026-06-18 Thursday 23:00 Canada 🇨🇦 Qatar 🇶🇦 Group B FALSE 01:00 2026-06-19 Y Y 2026-06-18 Thursday 03:00 Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 Colombia 🇨🇴 Group K FALSE 05:00 2026-06-18 N N 2026-06-18 Thursday 00:00 Ghana 🇬🇭 Panama 🇵🇦 Group L FALSE 02:00 2026-06-18 N N 2026-06-19 Friday 02:00 Mexico 🇲🇽 South Korea 🇰🇷 Group A FALSE 04:00 2026-06-19 N 01:00 T-F N Page 13
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2026-06-19 Friday 23:00 Scotland 🏴 Morocco 🇲🇦 Group C TRUE 01:00 2026-06-20 Y Y 2026-06-19 Friday 05:00 UEFA playoff C 🏳 Paraguay 🇵🇾 Group D FALSE 07:00 2026-06-19 N N 2026-06-19 Friday 20:00 USA 🇺🇸 Australia 🇦🇺 Group D FALSE 22:00 2026-06-19 Y Y 2026-06-20 Saturday 02:00 Brazil 🇧🇷 Haiti 🇭🇹 Group C FALSE 04:00 2026-06-20 N 04:00 F-S Y 2026-06-20 Saturday 21:00 Germany 🇩🇪 Ivory Coast 🇨🇮 Group E FALSE 23:00 2026-06-20 Y Y 2026-06-20 Saturday 18:00 Netherlands 🇳🇱 UEFA playoff B 🏳 Group F FALSE 20:00 2026-06-20 Y Y 2026-06-20 Saturday 05:00 Tunisia 🇹🇳 Japan 🇯🇵 Group F FALSE 07:00 2026-06-20 N N 2026-06-21 Sunday 01:00 Ecuador 🇪🇨 Curacao 🇨🇼 Group E FALSE 03:00 2026-06-21 N 03:00 S-S Y 2026-06-21 Sunday 20:00 Belgium 🇧🇪 Iran 🇮🇷 Group G FALSE 22:00 2026-06-21 Y Y 2026-06-21 Sunday 17:00 Spain 🇪🇸 Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 Group H FALSE 19:00 2026-06-21 Y Y 2026-06-21 Sunday 23:00 Uruguay 🇺🇾 Cape Verde 🇨🇻 Group H FALSE 01:00 2026-06-22 Y Y 2026-06-22 Monday 02:00 New Zealand 🇳🇿 Egypt 🇪🇬 Group G FALSE 04:00 2026-06-22 N 01:00 S-M N 2026-06-22 Monday 22:00 France 🇫🇷 Inter-confederation playoff 2 🏳 Group I FALSE 00:00 2026-06-23 Y Y 2026-06-22 Monday 18:00 Argentina 🇦🇷 Austria 🇦🇹 Group J FALSE 20:00 2026-06-22 Y Y 2026-06-23 Tuesday 01:00 Norway 🇳🇴 Senegal 🇸🇳 Group I FALSE 03:00 2026-06-23 N 01:00 M-T N 2026-06-23 Tuesday 04:00 Jordan 🇯🇴 Algeria 🇩🇿 Group J FALSE 06:00 2026-06-23 N N 2026-06-23 Tuesday 18:00 Portugal 🇵🇹 Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 Group K FALSE 20:00 2026-06-23 Y Y 2026-06-23 Tuesday 21:00 England 🇬🇧🏳 Ghana 🇬🇭 Group L TRUE 23:00 2026-06-23 Y Y 2026-06-24 Wednesday 20:00 Switzerland 🇨🇭 Canada 🇨🇦 Group B FALSE 22:00 2026-06-24 Y 01:00 T-W Y 2026-06-24 Wednesday 20:00 UEFA playoff A 🏳 Qatar 🇶🇦 Group B TRUE 22:00 2026-06-24 Y Y 2026-06-24 Wednesday 23:00 Scotland 🏴 Brazil 🇧🇷 Group C TRUE 01:00 2026-06-25 Y Y 2026-06-24 Wednesday 23:00 Morocco 🇲🇦 Haiti 🇭🇹 Group C FALSE 01:00 2026-06-25 Y Y 2026-06-24 Wednesday 03:00 Colombia 🇨🇴 Inter-confederation playoff 1 🏳 Group K FALSE 05:00 2026-06-24 N N 2026-06-24 Wednesday 00:00 Panama 🇵🇦 Croatia 🇭🇷 Group L FALSE 02:00 2026-06-24 N N 2026-06-25 Thursday 02:00 UEFA playoff D 🏳 Mexico 🇲🇽 Group A TRUE 04:00 2026-06-25 N 04:00 W-T Y 2026-06-25 Thursday 02:00 South Africa 🇿🇦 South Korea 🇰🇷 Group A FALSE 04:00 2026-06-25 N Y 2026-06-25 Thursday 21:00 Ecuador 🇪🇨 Germany 🇩🇪 Group E FALSE 23:00 2026-06-25 Y Y 2026-06-25 Thursday 21:00 Curacao 🇨🇼 Ivory Coast 🇨🇮 Group E FALSE 23:00 2026-06-25 Y Y 2026-06-26 Friday 03:00 UEFA playoff C 🏳 USA 🇺🇸 Group D FALSE 05:00 2026-06-26 N 02:00 T-F N 2026-06-26 Friday 03:00 Paraguay 🇵🇾 Australia 🇦🇺 Group D FALSE 05:00 2026-06-26 N N 2026-06-26 Friday 00:00 Japan 🇯🇵 UEFA playoff B 🏳 Group F FALSE 02:00 2026-06-26 N Y 2026-06-26 Friday 00:00 Tunisia 🇹🇳 Netherlands 🇳🇱 Group F FALSE 02:00 2026-06-26 N Y 2026-06-26 Friday 20:00 Norway 🇳🇴 France 🇫🇷 Group I FALSE 22:00 2026-06-26 Y Y 2026-06-26 Friday 20:00 Senegal 🇸🇳 Inter-confederation playoff 2 🏳 Group I FALSE 22:00 2026-06-26 Y Y Page 14
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2026-06-27 Saturday 04:00 Egypt 🇪🇬 Iran 🇮🇷 Group G FALSE 06:00 2026-06-27 N 03:00 F-S N 2026-06-27 Saturday 04:00 New Zealand 🇳🇿 Belgium 🇧🇪 Group G FALSE 06:00 2026-06-27 N N 2026-06-27 Saturday 01:00 Cape Verde 🇨🇻 Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 Group H FALSE 03:00 2026-06-27 N Y 2026-06-27 Saturday 01:00 Uruguay 🇺🇾 Spain 🇪🇸 Group H FALSE 03:00 2026-06-27 N Y 2026-06-27 Saturday 22:00 Panama 🇵🇦 England 🇬🇧🏳 Group L TRUE 00:00 2026-06-28 Y Y 2026-06-27 Saturday 22:00 Croatia 🇭🇷 Ghana 🇬🇭 Group L FALSE 00:00 2026-06-28 Y Y 2026-06-28 Sunday 03:00 Algeria 🇩🇿 Austria 🇦🇹 Group J FALSE 05:00 2026-06-28 N 03:00 S-S N 2026-06-28 Sunday 03:00 Jordan 🇯🇴 Argentina 🇦🇷 Group J FALSE 05:00 2026-06-28 N N 2026-06-28 Sunday 00:30 Colombia 🇨🇴 Portugal 🇵🇹 Group K FALSE 02:30 2026-06-28 N Y 2026-06-28 Sunday 00:30 Inter-confederation playoff 1 🏳 Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 Group K FALSE 02:30 2026-06-28 N Y 2026-06-28 Sunday 20:00 Runner up Group A 🏳 Runner up Group B 🏳 Round of 32 - Match 73 TRUE 22:30 2026-06-28 Y Y 2026-06-29 Monday 18:00 Winner Group C 🏴 Runner up Group F Round of 32 - Match 74 TRUE 20:30 2026-06-29 Y 01:00 S-M Y 2026-06-29 Monday 21:30 Winner Group E 3rd Group A/B/C/D/F 🏴🏳 Round of 32 - Match 75 TRUE 00:00 2026-06-30 Y Y 2026-06-30 Tuesday 02:00 Winner Group F Runner up Group C 🏴 Round of 32 - match 76 TRUE 04:30 2026-06-30 N 04:45 M-T Y 2026-06-30 Tuesday 18:00 Runner up Group E Runner up Group I Round of 32 - Match 77 FALSE 20:30 2026-06-30 Y Y 2026-06-30 Tuesday 22:00 Winner Group I 3rd Group C/D/F/G/H 🏴🏳 Round of 32 - Match 78 TRUE 00:30 2026-07-01 Y Y 2026-07-01 Wednesday 02:00 Winner Group A 🏳 3rd Group C/E/F/H/I 🏴 Round of 32 - Match 79 TRUE 04:30 2026-07-01 N 04:45 T-W Y 2026-07-01 Wednesday 17:00 Winner Group L 🏳 3rd Group E/H/I/J/K Round of 32 - Match 80 TRUE 19:30 2026-07-01 Y Y 2026-07-01 Wednesday 21:00 Winner Group G 3rd Group A/E/H/I/J 🏳 Round of 32 - Match 81 FALSE 23:30 2026-07-01 Y Y 2026-07-02 Thursday 01:00 Winner Group D 🏳 3rd Group B/E/F/I/J 🏳 Round of 32 - Match 82 TRUE 03:30 2026-07-02 N 03:45 W-T Y 2026-07-02 Thursday 20:00 Winner Group H Runner up Group J Round of 32 - Match 83 FALSE 22:30 2026-07-02 Y Y 2026-07-03 Friday 00:00 Runner up Group K Runner up Group L 🏳 Round of 32 - Match 84 TRUE 02:30 2026-07-03 N 02:45 T-F Y 2026-07-03 Friday 04:00 Winner Group B 🏳 3rd Group E/F/G/I/J Round of 32 - Match 85 TRUE 06:30 2026-07-03 N N 2026-07-03 Friday 19:00 Runner up Group D 🏳 Runner up Group G Round of 32 - Match 86 TRUE 21:30 2026-07-03 Y Y 2026-07-03 Friday 23:00 Winner Group J Runner up Group H Round of 32 - Match 87 FALSE 01:30 2026-07-04 N Y 2026-07-04 Saturday 02:30 Winner Group K 3rd Group D/E/I/J/L 🏳 Round of 32 - Match 88 TRUE 05:00 2026-07-04 N 04:45 F-S Y 2026-07-04 Saturday 18:00 Winner Match 73 🏳 Winner Match 75 🏴 Round of 16 - Match 89 TRUE 20:30 2026-07-04 Y Y 2026-07-04 Saturday 22:00 Winner Match 74 🏴 Winner Match 77 🏳 Round of 16 - Match 90 TRUE 00:30 2026-07-05 Y Y 2026-07-05 Sunday 21:00 Winner Match 76 🏴 Winner Match 78 🏴 Round of 16 - Match 91 TRUE 23:30 2026-07-05 Y 01:00 S-S Y 2026-07-06 Monday 01:00 Winner Match 79 🏴 Winner Match 80 🏳 Round of 16 - Match 92 TRUE 03:30 2026-07-06 N 04:00 S-M Y Page 15
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2026-07-06 Monday 20:00 Winner Match 83 Winner Match 84 🏳 Round of 16 - Match 93 TRUE 22:30 2026-07-06 Y Y 2026-07-07 Tuesday 01:00 Winner Match 81 🏳 Winner Match 82 🏳 Round of 16 - Match 94 TRUE 03:30 2026-07-07 N 04:00 M-T Y 2026-07-07 Tuesday 17:00 Winner Match 86 🏳 Winner Match 88 🏳 Round of 16 - Match 95 TRUE 19:30 2026-07-07 Y Y 2026-07-07 Tuesday 21:00 Winner Match 85 🏳 Winner Match 87 🏳 Round of 16 - Match 96 TRUE 23:30 2026-07-07 Y Y 2026-07-09 Thursday 21:00 Winner Match 89 🏴 Winner Match 90 🏴 Quarterfinal - Match 97 TRUE 23:30 2026-07-09 Y 01:00 W-T Y 2026-07-10 Friday 20:00 Winner Match 93 🏳 Winner Match 94 🏳 Quarterfinal - Match 98 TRUE 22:30 2026-07-10 Y 00:00 T-F Y 2026-07-11 Saturday 22:00 Winner Match 91 🏴 Winner Match 92 🏴🏳 Quarterfinal - Match 99 TRUE 00:30 2026-07-12 Y 02:00 F-S Y 2026-07-12 Sunday 02:00 Winner Match 95 🏳 Winner Match 96 🏳 Quarterfinal - Match 100 TRUE 04:30 2026-07-12 N 04:45 S-S Y 2026-07-14 Tuesday 20:00 Winner Match 97 🏴 Winner Match 98 🏳 Semifinal - Match 101 TRUE 22:30 2026-07-14 Y 00:00 T-W Y 2026-07-15 Wednesday 20:00 Winner Match 99 🏴🏳 Winner Match 100 🏳 Semifinal - Match 102 TRUE 22:30 2026-07-15 Y 00:00 W-T Y 2026-07-18 Saturday 22:00 Loser Match 101 🏴 Loser Match 102 🏴🏳 Third-place - Match 103 TRUE 00:30 2026-07-19 Y 02:00 F-S Y 2026-07-19 Sunday 20:00 Winner Match 101 🏴 Winner Match 102 🏴🏳 Final TRUE 22:30 2026-07-19 Y 01:00 S-S Y 59 Y & 45 N Total 104 80 Y & 24 N Total 104 Notes 57% 77% Y Column H: Extra 30 mins allowed for knock out stage matches due to the potential for extra time and penalties. Options - to make this longer - to express hours beyond the end of the match or let drinking up time swallow any extra Column I: This is the finishing date. Notably most matchs start and end on the same day but from a licensing perspective many are early morning. So for licensing hours that finish at 11:00pm the match may start and finish the next day. Is that extending the evening hours fom the night before or opening early the next day? Say hours finishes at 11:00pm Thursday and are due to start again 11:00am Friday. However a match that starts at 3am and finishes at 5am takes place entirely in Friday. Are hours to extend from 11:00pm Thursday to 5:00am Friday or to start at 3:00am on Friday. Example 1 increases hours by 6 hours. Example 2 increases hours at the (very early) start of the day by 8 hours. Page 16
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NOTICE AND GUIDANCE TO LICENCE HOLDERS OF EXTENSION OF HOURS BY MORAY LICENSING BOARD Matters of Clarity On sales – for clarity the extensions detailed only apply to the sale of alcohol for consumption ON the premises. Off sales are not affected and cannot take place outside of the hours of 10am to 10pm. Whether it is for on sales or off sales it is an offence to sell, consume or take away alcohol from licensed premises outside of licensing hours. So where any football game extends beyond 22:00 alcohol cannot be taken away from the premises after 22:15. The extension applies to the whole of the Moray Licensing Board area. Hours detailed for the sale and consumption of alcohol on the premises (on sales) are designed to INLCUDE drinking up time. So where the terminal hour is stated to be 30 minutes beyond the end of a game that includes last orders and drinking up time. This should be clearly communicated to customers on an ongoing basis. As an example: a game ends at 12:00 midnight. Licensing hours will be up to 00:30. So last orders will be at 00:15 and time will be at 00:30 for customers to be out of the premises and no alcohol may be taken away. (Last orders will not be at 00:30 with customers to drink up and leave by 00:45). Hours are to be extended ONLY for the specific purpose of showing live matches from the FIFA World Cup football tournament. Licensed premises are in no way obliged to trade to extended hours. There is no duty to trade. Licensing premises are free to take advantage of all or as many of the opportunities as they see fit. Licensing Hours The Moray Licensing Board has a specific and detailed policy in relation to licensed hours in general. Licence holders are advised to review the policy and take it into account wherever possible. The policy can be accessed here: Licensing Board Statement of Policy for the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005. However please note that the Moray Licensing Board’s policy on 16 hours’ continuous opening in any 24 hour period will not be enforced as a definite rule in the context of showing live FIFA World Cup matches to customers. It cannot be made clear where one 24 hour period ends and another begins. Licence holders should bear in mind that certain kick-off times may be viewed as a continuation of the night before e.g. kick off at 02:00 on Sunday morning is generally viewed as an extension of Saturday night into Sunday morning. Whereas others may simply be viewed as early morning e.g. 05:00 on Sunday may be more readily viewed as early on Sunday rather than very late on Saturday. 24 hour opening is not acceptable under any circumstances. Staff and customers should be given a reasonable break. Breaks should be detailed in the notice to the Board as referenced below. Whether a break is reasonable in all the circumstances will be judged in the absolute Page 17
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discretion of the Moray Licensing Board. Purely for example a 5 minute break from 11:59 to 00:04 is not going to be acceptable to re-set the time. Bank Holiday A Bank Holiday has been declared by the Scottish Government for Monday the 15 June 2026. Licence holders as employers should obtain their own legal advice about possible staffing implications. The Moray Licensing Board cannot offer legal advice. Matters To Note If a licensed premises requires ANYTHING outside of the concessions made by the Moray Licensing Board then the individual licence holder is free to make an individual application for what they wish. To extend licensing hours for an existing licensed premises requires an extended hours application which can extend hours for up to a month. The Moray Licensing Board will accept televising live World Cup games as sufficient to justify an extended hours application. For an unlicensed premises relevant persons may apply for an occasional licence which can last for up to 2 weeks. In both cases multiple applications will be required to cover the whole of the tournament. All licence holders should check their licence to confirm that the activity of live televised sport is covered within the operating plan. If not then licence holders are advised to immediately contact licensing staff to discuss their requirements on the contact details below: Email: LicBoard@moray.gov.uk Contact Centre Telephone: 0300 123 4561 Please note, our Contact Centre is open 8.45am to 5pm Notice to the Board The Moray Licensing Board asks any licence holder who wishes to take advantage of the opportunities detailed give notice in writing of their intention to utilise extended hours. Please complete and return attached form with no less than 1 months’ notice of intention to utilise extended hours. Notice should be sent by email to: LicBoard@moray.gov.uk Or by post: Depute Clerk Licensing Board, Moray Council, Council Offices, High Street, Elgin IV30 1BX For shorter notice please follow the same procedure and flag the message as short notice and important. Please note these notices will be shared with Police Scotland for the purpose of maintaining good order throughout Moray. Page 18
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Outside Areas The Moray Licensing Board’s policy on outside areas is NOT affected by this general extension. It is designed to be for customers solely within the premises. Licence holders should consider the potential impact on neighbours. Outside areas should still close by 22:00 and customers should be brought inside. Customers may be allowed outside to smoke/vape but not to remain outside. It would be helpful to notify customers that they should only smoke/vape between drinks and not take alcohol outside or cause any disturbance outside. It is for smoking/vaping only and customers should be notified to return inside as soon as possible. Premises should ensure there is sufficient space inside to accommodate customers coming in from outside at 22:00. Fan Zones As at the date of publication there has been no stated interest in a fan zone within the Moray area. As detailed in this guidance anyone considering opening a fan zone should contact licensing staff as they will be required to make an individual application. In such circumstances there is likely to be further licensing requirements / permissions beyond merely a licence to sell alcohol. Capacity Whether inside or outside the licence states a maximum capacity. Licence holders should not exceed that capacity. See also matters for consideration below. After 22:00 the capacity for any outside area will be zero. Children and Young Persons The provisions for children and young persons are NOT changed or enhanced by the extended hours. The admission of children and young persons is governed by and should comply with the existing provisions in the relevant operating plan. Where children and young people may be admitted to the end of a specific function the showing of a live World Cup football match is NOT deemed to be a relevant specific function. Any such provision in an operating plan is purely designed to cover specific low risk events such as weddings. Therefore if any licence holder wishes to see any other provision for children and/or young people then that must be the subject of an extended hours application(s) with detailed provisions and risk assessment. Late Opening Conditions Late opening licence conditions have been imposed on certain premises that met certain criteria when their licences were granted. The most common was the duty to have a first aider present. Licence holders are reminded that there is likely to be a significant amount of opening beyond 01:00 when such conditions may kick in. Anyone with specific questions on late opening conditions should contact licensing staff. Matters for Consideration by Licence Holders Licensing Objectives – as with all operation of licensed premises, licence holders are expected to operate in a manner that reflects and promotes the licensing objectives: (a) preventing crime and disorder; Page 19
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(b) securing public safety; (c) preventing public nuisance; (d) protecting and improving public health; and (e) protecting children and young persons from harm. Social Responsibility – licence holders are reminded of their social responsibility and should consider and risk assess the impact of their proposed activities on: - The public particularly neighbours - noise will almost certainly be beyond the hours accepted for general noise by the council’s Environmental Health Service which is generally 23:00. The potential for noise should be actively managed to minimise possible disturbance with particular attention to windows, doors, volume levels etc; and - Customers – customers may all be arriving and leaving at concentrated times to coincide with the start and end of matches. Licence holders should assess the likely impact of both arrival and leaving. For customers leaving a written dispersal policy will be the best evidence. Other matters may include whether there is sufficient space or should ticketing be considered to give customers certainty? Can customers reasonably view the match without crowding into one area? Staffing arrangements. Customers getting home and signposting the availability of public transport and/or taxis; and - Responsibility to staff – staff may be working at unusual and unsocial hours and licence holders should take responsibility for ensuring staff are looked after and can get home safely. This is particularly important in relation to the suitability of using young staff members; and Premises Safety – The control of order inside and outwith premises is an important issue: - Stewarding - beyond the statutory requirements of late opening conditions referenced above the Moray Licensing Board does not specify stewarding requirements. However individual licence holders should assess and address and maintain control of order. Bear in mind there is likely to be high demand for stewards. Both the Scottish Government guidance and Police Scotland use the term “sufficient stewarding” which will change according to the circumstances; - Physical safety – premises should consider the use of plastic containers for drinks or suitable, unbreakable alternatives (like polyurethane). - Staffing – premises should have a duty individual(s) available and clearly identifiable at all times of extended opening who will preferably be a personal licence holder and who will be detailed on the notice to the Board. Operators should consider staff levels for the safe management of the premises and having a first aider present. Risk Assess - Individual applications will require risk assessments to be submitted in support of any application. In other cases the Moray Licensing Board does not need to see risk assessments but that does not alleviate the responsibility to undertake an appropriate risk assessment. Risk assessments should take account of the licensing objectives and this proposal. Licence holders are reminded that the best evidence for licence holders to keep are written records and the Licensing Standards Officer may require evidence of compliance at any time. General risk assessments already held by licence holders will need to be reviewed Page 20
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and supplemented given the highly unusual nature of the proposed trading. One size does not fit all. The same is true of any fire risk assessment which may be reviewed at any time by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Note The Scottish Government has issued guidance to Licensing Boards in relation to the power to extend opening hours for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The guidance can be viewed at this link: Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 Section 142 Guidance for Licensing Boards – Licensing Board powers to determine a general extension of hours – FIFA World Cup 2026 . The Moray Licensing Board believes that this proposal reflects the matters set out in guidance and expects operators to operate in a manner consistent with the provisions and spirit of both sets of guidance. General Extension of Licensing On Sale Hours Under section 67(1) of the Licensing (S) Act 2005: (1)A Licensing Board may, if they consider it appropriate to do so in connection with a special event of local or national significance, make a determination extending licensed hours by such period as the Board may specify in the determination. (2) A determination under subsection (1) may apply to— (a)the whole of the Licensing Board's area or only to specified parts of the area, (b )licensed hours generally or only to specified descriptions of licensed hours, and (c)all licensed premises in the Board's area or only to specified descriptions of such premises. Pursuant to the above power – and with specific regard to and on the basis of ALL the matters referenced above the Moray Licensing Board proposes to extend the on sales hours for all on sale alcohol licensed premises within the whole Moray area for the duration of the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament as follows: 1. When showing live FIFA World Cup 2026 football matches within the premises to customers on sale hours will be extended to 30 minutes beyond the end of the relevant match such 30 minutes to include last orders and drinking up time. 2. In any event and irrespective of whether the final whistle has gone and the match is over or not there should be a cut off time – again to include last orders and drinking up time of 05:00. Page 21
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Clerk to the Board Moray Licensing Board Council Office, High Street, Elgin IV30 1BX Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 Notice of Intention to use Extended Hours World Cup 2026 PLEASE ENSURE THAT THIS NOTICE IS SUBMITTED AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE 1. PREMISES DETAILS Premises Licence Number: Premises Name: Premises Address: 2. POINT OF CONTACT DURING PERIOD OF EXTENDED HOURS Title: Mr Mrs Miss Ms Other (please state) (delete as appropriate) Surname Forename(s) Daytime Telephone Number: Evening Telephone Number: Mobile Telephone Number: Email Address: 3. NOTICE Dates that extension will be utilised Times that extension will be used Any other relevant information 4. CHECKLIST I confirm I have completed the following checks prior to returning this notice (Please tick √) 1. Read Guidance 2. Confirmed the premises has televised sport as a licensable activity 3. Confirm extension will only be used with live showing of World Cup 2026 matches 4. Onsales Premises 5. Confirm alcohol cannot be taken off the premises after 22:00 Page 22
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APPENDIX 3 GUIDANCE TO LICENCE HOLDERS ON EXTENDED HOURS / OCCASIONAL LICENCE APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2026 WORLD CUP Matters of Clarity On sales – for clarity only hours for the sale of alcohol for consumption ON the premises may be extended outside of 10am to 10pm. Off sales are not affected and cannot take place outside of the hours of 10am to 10pm. Whether it is for on sales or off sales it is an offence to sell, consume or take away alcohol from licensed premises outside of licensing hours. So where any football game extends beyond 22:00 alcohol cannot be taken away from the premises after 22:15. The guide applies to the whole of the Moray Licensing Board area. This guide is not to be taken in isolation. The general policy considerations of the Moray Licensing Board still apply, save where varied temporarily by this guide. There are two possible types of application: EXTENDED HOURS: For existing ON sale premises an extended hours application can be made to extend ON sale licensing hours beyond those detailed in the operating plan. This guide is designed to give applicants an idea of what would be acceptable to the Moray Licensing Board. • Application can be made for £10; • Extended hours applications require an event of local or national significance to justify the application. The showing of live World Cup matches will be taken as sufficient reason for the application; • Extended hours can normally cover up to one calendar month. However one application will be taken as sufficient to cover the whole of the World Cup event. OCCASIONAL LICENCE: For any UNLICENSED area/premises an occasional licence application can be made. Similar considerations to extended hours above apply and this guide is designed to give applicants an idea of what would be acceptable to the Moray Licensing Board. • Application can be made for £10; • Occasional licence applications do not require a specific reason but full details will be required including the showing of live World Cup matches; • Occasional licences can usually last for up to 2 weeks. However one application will be taken as sufficient to cover the whole of the World Cup event. The information in this guidance is designed to apply in ALL circumstances. Page 23
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Hours detailed for the sale and consumption of alcohol on the premises (on sales) are designed to INLCUDE drinking up time. So where the terminal hour is stated to be 30 minutes beyond the end of a game that includes last orders and drinking up time. This should be clearly communicated to customers on an ongoing basis. As an example: a game ends at 12:00 midnight. Licensing hours will be up to 00:30. So last orders will be at 00:15 and time will be at 00:30 for customers to be out of the premises and no alcohol may be taken away. (Last orders will not be at 00:30 with customers to drink up and leave by 00:45). Hours are to be extended ONLY for the specific purpose of showing live matches from the FIFA World Cup football tournament. Licensed premises are in no way obliged to trade to extended hours, even if granted. There is no duty to trade. Licensing Hours The Moray Licensing Board has a specific and detailed policy in relation to licensed hours in general. Licence holders are advised to review the policy and take it into account wherever possible. The policy can be accessed here: Licensing Board Statement of Policy for the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005. However please note that the Moray Licensing Board’s policy on 16 hours’ continuous opening in any 24 hour period will not be enforced as a definite rule in the context of showing live FIFA World Cup matches to customers. It cannot be made clear where one 24 hour period ends and another begins. Licence holders should bear in mind that certain kick-off times may be viewed as a continuation of the night before e.g. kick off at 02:00 on Sunday morning is generally viewed as an extension of Saturday night into Sunday morning. Whereas others may simply be viewed as early morning e.g. 05:00 on Sunday may be more readily viewed as early on Sunday rather than very late on Saturday. 24 hour opening is not acceptable under any circumstances. Staff and customers should be given a reasonable break. Breaks should be detailed in any application to the Board as referenced below. Whether a break is reasonable in all the circumstances will be judged in the absolute discretion of the Moray Licensing Board. Purely for example a 5 minute break from 11:59 to 00:04 is not going to be acceptable to re-set the time. Bank Holiday A Bank Holiday has been declared by the Scottish Government for Monday the 15 June 2026. Licence holders as employers should obtain their own legal advice about possible staffing implications. The Moray Licensing Board cannot offer legal advice. Matters To Note Page 24
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All applicants must confirm that the activity proposed is the showing of live televised World Cup matches. Notice to the Moray Licensing Board The application will serve as notice to the Moray Licensing Board of the operator’s intention to take advantage of these opportunities. Please note it is standard procedure that all applications will be shared with Police Scotland for the purpose of maintaining good order throughout Moray. It is likely that the application will need to be determined at relatively short notice. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE that any application will be determined in time, particularly if there are any objections or representations. So it is vital for applicants to provide relevant, detailed information up front. If any application need to be determined by the Moray Licensing Board then the Board does have a process for doing so without a meeting. However this also means applicants will not have the opportunity to address the Board other than through their paperwork. Therefore, again, it is vital that paperwork is complete and comprehensive. Outside Areas The Moray Licensing Board’s policy on outside areas is NOT affected by this guidance. Any extension of hours will be designed to be for customers solely within the premises. Licence holders should consider the potential impact on neighbours. Outside areas should still close by 22:00 and customers should be brought inside. Customers may be allowed outside to smoke/vape but not to remain outside. It would be helpful to notify customers that they should only smoke/vape between drinks and not take alcohol outside or cause any disturbance outside. It is for smoking/vaping only and customers should be notified to return inside as soon as possible. Premises should ensure there is sufficient space inside to accommodate customers coming in from outside at 22:00. Fan Zones As at the date of publication there has been no stated interest in a fan zone within the Moray area. As detailed in this guidance anyone considering opening a fan zone should contact licensing staff as they will be required to make an individual application for an occasional licence. There is likely to be further licensing requirements / permissions beyond merely a licence to sell alcohol, particularly if a fan zone may be outside (for which see Outside areas above). Capacity Page 25
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Whether inside or outside the licence states a maximum capacity. Licence holders should not exceed that capacity. See also matters for consideration below. After 22:00 the capacity for any outside area will be zero. Children and Young Persons The provisions for children and young persons are generally NOT going to be changed or enhanced by any successful extended hours application. The admission of children and young persons is governed by and should comply with the existing provisions in the relevant operating plan. Where children and young people may be admitted to the end of a specific function the showing of a live World Cup football match is NOT deemed to be a relevant specific function. Any such provision in an operating plan is purely designed to cover specific low risk events such as weddings. Therefore if any licence holder wishes to see any other provision for children and/or young people then that must be the subject of an extended hours application(s) with detailed provisions and risk assessment. The same is true of an unlicensed premises and an occasional licence application. The application will require detailed explanations. Late Opening Conditions Late opening licence conditions have been imposed on certain premises that met certain criteria when their licences were granted. Licence holders are reminded that there is likely to be a significant amount of opening beyond 01:00 when such conditions may kick in. Anyone with specific questions on late opening conditions should contact licensing staff. Matters for Consideration by Licence Holders Licensing Objectives – as with all operation of licensed premises, licence holders are expected to operate in a manner that reflects and promotes the licensing objectives: (a) preventing crime and disorder; (b) securing public safety; (c) preventing public nuisance; (d) protecting and improving public health; and (e) protecting children and young persons from harm. Social responsibility – licence holders are reminded of their social responsibility and should consider and risk assess the impact of their proposed activities on: -The public particularly neighbours - noise will almost certainly be beyond the hours accepted for general noise by the council’s Environmental Health Service which is generally 23:00; and -Customers – customers may all be arriving and leaving at concentrated times to coincide with the start and end of matches. Licence holders should assess the likely Page 26
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impact of both arrival and leaving. For customers leaving a written dispersal policy will be the best evidence. Other matters may include whether there is sufficient space or should ticketing be considered to give customers certainty? Can customers reasonably view the match without crowding into one area? Staffing arrangements. Customers getting home and signposting the availability of public transport and/or taxis; and -Responsibility to staff – staff may be working at unusual and unsocial hours and licence holders should take responsibility for ensuring staff are looked after and can get home safely. This is particularly important in relation to the suitability of using young staff members; and The control of order inside and outwith premises is an important issue. Beyond the statutory requirements of late opening conditions referenced above the Moray Licensing Board does not specify stewarding requirements. However individual licence holders should assess and address and maintain control of order. Bear in mind there is likely to be high demand for stewards. Police Scotland use the term “sufficient stewarding” which will change according to the circumstances. Staffing – premises should have a duty individual(s) available and clearly identifiable at all times of extended opening who will preferably be a personal licence holder and who will be detailed on the notice to the Board. Operators should consider staff levels for the safe management of the premises and having a first aider present. Physical safety – premises should consider the use of plastic containers for drinks or suitable, unbreakable alternatives (like polyurethane). Individual applications will require risk assessments to be submitted in support of any application. The responsibility is to undertake an appropriate risk assessment. Risk assessments should take account of the licensing objectives and this guidance. Licence holders are also reminded that the best evidence for licence holders to keep are written records and the Licensing Standards Officer may require evidence of compliance at any time. General risk assessments already held by licence holders will need to be reviewed and supplemented given the highly unusual nature of the proposed trading. One size does not fit all. The same is true of any fire risk assessment which may be reviewed at any time by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Note The Scottish Government has issued guidance to Licensing Boards in relation to the power to extend opening hours for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The guidance can be viewed at this link: Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 Section 142 Guidance for Licensing Boards – Licensing Board powers to determine a general extension of hours – FIFA World Cup 2026 Page 27
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The Moray Licensing Board believes that this proposal reflects the matters set out in guidance and expects operators to operate in a manner consistent with the provisions and spirit of both sets of guidance. Page 28
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From: Webster, John Sent: Wed, 4 Mar 2026 07:51:59 +0000 To: Emma Rapley Subject: RE: Formal consultation to World Cup extension 2026 [OFFICIAL SENSITIVE: POLICE AND PARTNERS] Attachments: Notice to Chief Constable 2026 - World Cup.pdf, Appendix 3 Proposed Conditions.pdf Warning. This email contains one or more attachments and originates from outside of the Moray Council network. You should only open these attachments if you are certain that the email is genuine and the content is safe. Warning. This email contains web links and originates from outside of the Moray Council network. You should only click on these links if you are certain that the email is genuine and the content is safe. OFFICIAL SENSITIVE: POLICE AND PARTNERS Good morning Emma, Sorry for the delay in replying. We were having a Practitioners Group meeting yesterday and I wanted to see if there was any new Police Scotland Advice & Guidance before replying. I have also sent a few things through to Sean regarding the decisions made by Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. There wasn’t anything re brought it to Police Practitioners group, although there is a further meeting between Police Scotland and the Scottish Government in the next few days. I felt it would be inappropriate to wait any longer to reply. They did provide that the Scottish Government appeared in favour of extensions for Scottish matches, didn’t really go into Home Nation (UK wide) teams. They also provided a copy of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 Section 142 Guidance for Licensing Boards – Licensing Board powers to… which is the updated version posted by the Scottish Government. Basically they appear in favour of Conditions, have included an annex with conditions and suggested ways around it by use of S.27A. The reason it has been taken to be an event of National Significance was because Scotland qualified, several of the other Home Nations regularly qualify. From our point of view, locally, we are in favour of a General Extension, it makes it easier for licenced premises to make plans and will reduce the number of applications to be processed. Also a good way to be seen to support the local residents and also the trade. In relation to whether it should be Scotland only or Home Nations we have no strong position and would support local either decision. Saying that I believe it may be one step too far to include all fixtures, as was decided in Aberdeen. The option remains for anyone to make an Occasional Licence Application Page 29
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should they wish to show it. Saying that we would be worth considering including the Quarters / Semis / Finals in this decision. We would request more control, as was discussed, for notification and Conditions. The Shire Conditions are attached on Appendix 3. They had a lot of discussion around them and we would be supportive if this, or something similar, were considered to be adopted in Moray. From the new Guidance I feel there would be justification for looking at applying them as Conditions rather than Advisory. We are unsure of the legality of the Aberdeen suggestion that they are going to give an amnesty for those premises who don’t have a relevant PEL as we believe this should require a Major Variation. I can see why they have done this, would allow restaurants etc. where they have a good support for their own nation and may want to show a match or 2 and doing it this way doesn’t leave additional premises with permanent enhancement to their licence. Below is the decisions already made by Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Kind Regards John ABERDEEN At their last Board they agreed for a General extension, as per the attached – Notice To Chief Constable. This will give every licenced premises the ability to open until 0300 hours if showing any match and remain open up to 30 minutes after the final whistle for Scotland matches. My concerns are that without being specific there could be persons who look to push it to extremes (doesn’t say ‘Live’ will someone remain open until 0300 hours to reshow / Highlights to get the extra licencing hours. Doesn’t restrict the activities that they can undertake. Also they have advised that they are going to give an amnesty to any premises which doesn’t have the relevant PEL to show the football. Effectively this means that any licenced premises, including restaurants etc., can remain open. We are still awaiting something in writing re this as it was only from the Board meeting verbal decision. ABERDEENSHIRE They have split this into 2 considerations – Civil licenced premises and Liquor Board considerations. In general the decisions were similar with a few distinct changes. There is a requirement for any premises to have the appropriate licence in place and if they need to make amendments (PEL to show life sports etc.) this will require a Major Variations which has a feed in time of 3-6 months and is unlikely to be in place before the commencement of the World Cup. Civic – Page 30
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Can operate for any Home Nation match for 1 hour before to 30 minutes after the final whistle, also to include Quarter / Semi / Finals Conditions set (as per Appendix 3 document attached) If they want to take advantage of the extension they must give 21 days notice Delegated decisions to the local Licencing team for Occasional Licences to be considered / granted to cover games not involving the Home Nations. Liquor Board decision – The update in writing we had from the Board was on a document covering other matters. I have copied the section relating to the World Cup so that you have the full information. Following consideration of a report by the Clerk relating to licensing for the World Cup, dated 17th February 2026, copies of which had been circulated in advance, the Board 1. Considered the options in the report to deal with the World Cup for premises licences which are currently permitted to sow live or televised sport. 2. Agreed to proceed on the basis of option 3 in the report for a Genera Extension of Hour in the following terms a) To apply to Home Nations Matches, Quarter Finals, Semi Finals and final matches only b)To last until half an hour beyond the end of the matches covered by this extension, which period is to include drinking up time c) Any one wishing to take advantage of the General Extension to provide 21 days advance notice using the form provided d)Following advice from the Depute Clerk, agreed that the General Extension be subject to Advisories in the same terms as the conditions set out in Appendix 3 to the report. 3. Agreed to the same terms as the General Extension to apply to any Extended Hours applications for matches not covered by the General Extension and for any Occasional Licences for Public Halls or Members Club, subject to the advisories being attached as conditions of the licence. Further, the Board agreed that the relevant “Occasion” was the World Cup for the purposes of these applications to allow all matches within a 14 day period to be applied for on one occasional licence application, and all matches within a one month period to be applied for on one extended hours application. 4. Authorised the Clerk to the Board to publicise the decision on Aberdeenshire Council’s website and to notify Licence Holders o the decision and what they need to do to benefit from the Board’s decision. The Board also agreed to the circulation of a Briefing note after the end of the World Cup, including evidence from Police Scotland and the Licensing Standards Officers, on compliance and any issues arising from the General Extension of Hours. I have attached APPENDIX 3 which are the Conditions (CIVIC) / Advisory procedures (Liquor) John Webster Sergeant, Police Scotland, PPI&E - Licensing Stonehaven Police Office Telephone: / Email : Page 31
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Website: www.scotland.police.uk / Facebook: www.facebook.com/policescotland From: Emma Rapley Sent: 20 February 2026 12:09 To: Subject: Formal consultation to World Cup extension 2026 Good afternoon, Following the initial consultation and the feedback received please find attached formal consultation of attached proposal to extend the licensing hours of on sales premises for World Cup 2026 to allow customers to watch live matches. The matter will be considered by at a special Licensing Board on the 19th March. Please therefore take a couple of minutes to read the attached guidance and proposal and provide any feedback as soon as possible and in any event before the 1st March Kind regards Emma Emma Rapley Licensing Standards Officer | Governance Strategy and Performance news | website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Work pattern – Hybrid Mon - Fri Page 32
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Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 Section 67(4)(a)(i) Notice to the Chief Constable, Police Scotland Please take notice that: ABERDEEN CITY LICENSING BOARD GENERAL EXTENSIONS 2026 On 20 January 2026 Aberdeen City Licensing Board made a determination under section 67 of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 to the effect that: - All “on consumption” premises with the exception of casinos, whose regular licensed hours adhere to the maximum of 15 hours continuous trading in any 24 hour period, as per the Licensing Board’s Statement of Licensing Policy, may extend the licensed hours beyond the terminal hour on the following terms:- For the duration of the FIFA World Cup Tournament, premises can remain open until 0300 for the purposes of televising any fixture. For fixtures involving the Scotland National Team, premises may remain open until 30 minutes after the conclusion of the fixture. Premises licence holders whose Core Hours meet the terms of the policy need not make an extended hours application for these dates. There is no obligation placed on licence holders to take advantage of these extensions should they not wish to do so. The Board would like to remind all licence holders that the conditions of their Premises Licence remain in force for the duration of the extended hours and all relevant risk assessments should be conducted to ensure compliance with all licensing objectives during the period of extended hours. Page 33
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Police Scotland- APPENDIX 3 PROPOSED ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS TO APPLY TO ANY EXTENSION GRANTED BY THE BOARD Page 34
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Proposed Conditions 1. Notification to the Board: The Licence Holder must submit a completed notification to the Board, in the form specified by the Board (Period of notification could be 14 days in advance, possibly shortened to 7 days as there may be additional matches requested depending how far a specific team progresses) prior to operating under this general extension. The notification must specify: a. Confirmation that the premises licence includes live/televised sport as an activity b. The World Cup match or matches in respect of which the extension will apply c. The anticipated maximum number of persons to be present on the premises during each such match d. What part(s) of the premises will the match or matches be televised in? The extension is permitted in respect of the showing of World Cup matches only. No other form of entertainment is permitted during the extension. 2. Compliance with mandatory and local conditions attached to your premises licence for the duration of the extension and the additional conditions set out in this general extension of hours - a) The Licence Holder should consider whether admission should be by issue of Advance Ticket Only: During any period of extended hours authorised by this resolution, admission to the premises shall be restricted to persons holding an advance ticket issued by, or on behalf of, the Licence Holder for the relevant match. Consideration should also be given to a cut off day for the issue of tickets. The purpose of using tickets (Issued free or paid for) is to be aware of the capacity for the event and to ensure the premises are not overcrowded. b) If any person leaves the premises for any reason other than to smoke, reentry to the premises should not be permitted. c) The licence holder, or a responsible person authorised by them, to be on the premises for the duration of the extension d) The Licence holder shall ensure that adequate medical/first aid provisions are made for duration of the extension. e) This General extension only applies where a live World Cup match is being shown OR for the following matches for the following times. f) No outdoor areas to be used during the general extension except for the purpose of smoking. Licence Holders are also encouraged to dissuade Page 35
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patrons from congregating immediately outwith the premises during the period of extended hours. g) The Licence Holder should consider whether persons under the age of 18 should be permitted to the event. Where considered appropriate access should only be with a responsible adult and measures put into place to supervise to ensure they are protected from harm. h) The Licence Holder must have in place a Duty of Care policy to ensure a standard approach is taken when any patron appears to be displaying signs of distress. The Licence Holder must ensure that all staff, volunteers and stewards have additional training in identifying signs of vulnerability through intoxication. The Licence Holder shall ensure that staff training records are made accessible for inspection by Police Scotland and Licensing Standards Officers. i) All drinks to be dispensed into containers which provide a safe alternative glass for the duration of the extension. j) The Licence holder must determine the number of stewards who are SIA registered in addition to the licence holder or responsible person to ensure safe management of the premises for the duration of the extension (Standard Condition 5). Such persons must be easily identifiable as such to persons present, display the appropriate identification, and should be made aware of their duties, policies and practices, by the licence holder. They must be - responsible, capable, aware of their duties and not drink alcoholic liquor for the duration of their active employment. Their duties are to – • Confirm that persons who seek access to the premises have paid for admission or have appropriate passes/invitations; • Identify and refuse entry to drunken persons • Actively police the premises and perform all activities in line with their role under the Private Security Act 2001 • Supervise entrance doors/access points at all times to ensure that no fire or other exits are blocked • Be aware of fire safety precautions and procedures and all other policies and practices • Provide assistance to patrons, including customer care, directions to facilities and health and safety • Ensure that no patron removes any open vessels from the premises when exiting for any reason • Remain on the premises until the end of the extension period and all patrons have vacated the premises, including patrolling the vicinity outside the premises to assist dispersal from the premises after the premises close. Page 36
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• Have clear means of communication with the licence holder and any volunteers present for the duration of the extension period and report any incidents to the licence holder or person responsible • Report all criminal matters to Police Scotland. k) The Licence holder must determine the number of volunteers/staff required in addition to the licence holder or responsible person and any SIA registered stewards to ensure safe management of the premises for the duration of the extension (Standard Condition 5). Such persons must be easily identifiable as such to persons present, display the appropriate identification, and should be made aware of their duties, policies and practices, by the licence holder. They must be - responsible, capable, aware of their duties and not drink alcoholic liquor for the duration of their active employment. Their duties are to – • Confirm that persons who seek access to the premises have paid for admission or have appropriate passes/invitations; • Supervise entrance doors/access points at all times to ensure that no fire or other exits are blocked • Be aware of fire safety precautions and procedures and all other policies and practices • Provide assistance to patrons, including customer care, directions to facilities and health and safety • Remain on the premises until the end of the extension period and all patrons have vacated the premises, including patrolling the vicinity outside the premises to assist dispersal from the premises after the premises close. • The Licence Holder shall ensure that an adequate number of staff, volunteers or stewards have knowledge of first aid procedure. l) The Licence Holder shall ensure that there is no re-entry to the event if a person is removed from the premises m) The Licence Holder must ensure that a dispersal policy is in place, that all staff, volunteers and stewards are briefed and aware of this Policy and assist with a swift, safe and quiet dispersal of patrons at the end of the event. Page 37
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Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 Section 142 Guidance for Licensing Boards – Licensing Board powers to determine a general extension of hours – FIFA World Cup 2026 March 2026 Page 39
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Introduction Under section 142 of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 (“the 2005 Act”), the Scottish Ministers may issue guidance to Licensing Boards as to the exercise of their functions under the 2005 Act. Section 142 of the 2005 Act requires Licensing Boards to have regard to the guidance. Any guidance is intended to assist Licensing Boards as they carry out their responsibilities under the 2005 Act. The Scottish Government published updated section 142 guidance in January 2023. This guidance is temporary supplementary guidance and relates to consideration of relevant issues to help facilitate a Licensing Board being able to determine extensions to licensed hours for games during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Men’s World Cup will take place in Canada, Mexico and the United States of America between 11 June 2026 – 19 July 2026. Scotland play three games in their group: Sunday 14 June 2026: Scotland vs Haiti – UK kick off time 0200 Friday 19 June 2026: Scotland vs Morocco – UK kick off time 2300 Wednesday 24 June 2026: Scotland vs. Brazil – UK kick off time 2300 Each of these games will likely finish beyond licensed hours for many, if not all, licensed premises within an area. The issue arises due to UK kick off times for each of Scotland’s games being times that may lead to an issue with licensed premises usual opening hours. In particular, the game on Sunday 14 June is not expected to finish until approximately 0415-0430 (exact time dependent on a number of variables including additional time added by the referee etc.). However, the two other games will also not likely finish until 0115- 0130 which will also create issues in terms of many licensed premises usual opening hours. Licensing Boards may also want to consider extension of hours for further Scotland games if the team qualifies from the Group. The dates and times of such matches are of course still to be confirmed. In addition to Scotland games, Licensing Boards may also wish to give consideration to allowing licensed premises to stay open to show other games during the World Cup with many late night/early morning kick offs UK time. Where decisions have already been made, there is no need for re-taking of decisions in light of this guidance. However, for decisions yet to be made, the Scottish Government is keen to see a proportionate approach being taken by Licensing Boards across Scotland which would allow premises, where appropriate, to allow people to come together to watch games in a social environment by remaining open later than normal for the purpose of screening games, whilst maintaining public safety and minimising the risk of public nuisance or disorder. Page 40
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While the licensing system is decentralised so that local communities are those that influence decisions through Licensing Boards, the 2005 Act envisages a role for Scottish Ministers to assist Licensing Boards in how they carry out functions under the 2005 Act. While not written into section 142 of the 2005 Act itself, where an issue is of national relevance then it may be considered there may be merit in Scottish Ministers providing further guidance to Licensing Boards as to the exercise of their functions in that regard. The following information is intended to assist Licensing Boards in approaching consideration of determinations to grant extension of hours to on-sales of alcohol within Licensing Board areas during the World Cup. Historic achievement of national significance The qualification of the Scotland Men’s team to the World Cup represents the first time this century that the team has qualified. This is a significant achievement by the team that people across Scotland are very proud of and it is the first time under the 2005 Act where consideration can be given to determining extension of licensed hours for the on-sale of alcohol in the context of Scotland being involved in the Men’s World Cup. Section 67 of the 2005 Act provides a power for Licensing Boards to grant general extensions to licensed hours in connection with special events of local or national significance if they consider it appropriate to do so. Scotland qualifying for the World Cup clearly represents an event with national significance. The Scottish Ministers are clear that the people of Scotland should be given as much opportunity as possible to watch Scotland play including in places where they can come together with fellow fans to enjoy the games. Given many licensed premises already allow fans of many different sports to come together to socialise while watching sport, the issue that arises is, given the times these games are being shown, whether action should be taken to allow relevant premises to be open when games are taking place. 2005 Act Framework In considering whether to allow licensed premises in their locality to stay open later during the World Cup, Licensing Boards should have regard to the licensing objectives of the 2005 Act, and their Statements of Licensing Policy. The five licensing objectives are: • preventing crime and disorder; • securing public safety; Page 41
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• preventing public nuisance; • protecting and improving public health; and • protecting children and young persons from harm. Each objective is equally important. No one licensing objective carries more weight than any other and it is always a matter for Licensing Boards to weigh up these objectives when making decisions under the 2005 Act. General extension of hours – section 67 of the 2005 Act In the section 142 guidance published by the Scottish Government in January 2023, general extensions of licensing hours is covered as follows: “9.25 The licensed hours for occasional licences require to be set out in the application for the licence and incorporated into the licence if granted. Section 67 of the 2005 Act provides Licensing Boards with a power to grant general extensions to licensed hours in connection with special events of local or national significance. However, licensed premises are not obliged to remain open for the period of any such extension. Section 68 of the 2005 Act which makes provision for extended hours applications does not apply to occasional licences.” The 2005 Act refers to a Licensing Board making a ‘determination’ to grant general extensions to licensed hours. A determination can apply to – • the whole of the Licensing Board's area or only to specified parts, • licensed hours generally or only to specified descriptions of those hours, and • all licensed premises in the Licensing Board's area or only to specified descriptions of such premises. The Scottish Parliament approved these powers to be contained within the 2005 Act so that they were ready to be considered for use as needed for special events of local or national significance as they occur. The Scottish Ministers would expect each Licensing Board to consider whether to extend hours. The decision in each board area is a matter for the Licensing Board, but given the national significance of the Scotland team’s achievement, the Scottish Government would guide Licensing Boards to consider use of the powers in section 67 of the 2005 Act as a matter of course. It should be noted that where an extension of hours is granted, such a determination does not require any licensed premises to be open for the sale of alcohol during any or all of the period of extension hours specified. The effect of granting an extension means that individual premises can make their own decision whether to remain Page 42
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open, but that if they wish to do then they do not require to make their own individual request for extended hours. This flexibility of approach would give greater freedom to licensed premises to make their own decision on opening while reducing the bureaucratic burden falling on business (by avoiding the need to apply for extended hours). It is a matter for Licensing Boards to decide on how they further publicise the granting of a general extension of hours. At a minimum the Licensing Board may wish to post details on its website. Licensing Boards are under a statutory duty to notify the chief constable and the appropriate licence holders to whom the determination applies. Separate to notification once a determination has been made, we would guide Licensing Boards to consider what engagement they should undertake prior to making a decision on a determination. Although section 67 of the 2005 Act does not require such engagement, it is considered appropriate to do with, as a suggested minimum, the chief constable given a general extension of hours in the early hours will have relevance for the operation of policing. Conditions/ safeguards for licensed premises Licensing Boards may wish to consider the extent to which later opening can be supported in meeting the licensing objectives by appropriate controls, and whether this is best addressed through a co-ordinated approach within a licensing board area or through premises-specific applications determined on their merits. Issues that Licensing Boards may wish to consider before permitting a licensed premises to stay open later to show matches could include: • The licensed premises where relevant, has appropriate permissions obtained to broadcast sports. • Ticketed entry to support monitoring of maximum capacity. • Last entry aligned with match kick off times. • Sufficient SIA approved stewarding. • Use of reusable plastic cups for the duration of the extended licence. • No under 18’s permitted on the premises out with their normal approved hours • Continued adherence to existing external licensing conditions, for example, beer gardens. • Premises to close no later than 30 minutes after the final whilst to allow appropriate dispersal. • Any additional local considerations specific to problematic premises or relevant intelligence. • Having regard to the availability of local public transport provision . Page 43
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Section 27A of the 2005 Act allows Licensing Boards to make a variation of premises licence conditions where they are satisfied that it is necessary or expedient for the purposes of any of the licensing objectives. Such a variation may apply to all licensed premises, particular licensed premises, licensed premises within a particular area or of a particular description. Further detail about the publication and notification requirements can be found in paragraphs 8.64-8.65 of the 2023 guidance. Licensing Boards may wish to consider whether any variation of licensed conditions is appropriate if granting an extension for these purposes. Examples of possible draft conditions/ safeguards that Licensing Boards may wish to consider for licensed premises showing matches are attached as an Annex to this guidance. These draft conditions/ safeguards are provided to support a proportionate approach for later opening which focuses on possible key risks and how to mitigate them. Extended hours applications – section 68 of the 2005 Act Alternatively, section 68 of the 2005 Act provides a power for Licensing Boards, on the application of a premises licence holder, to grant extensions to licensed hours for the premises to cater for special events or occasions. A premises licence holder may apply for extended hours authorising the premises to remain open later than the time specified in the premises licence. Such applications are determined by a Licensing Board having regard to the licensing objectives and the Licensing Boards Policy and may be granted or refused. Where granted, the Licensing Board may vary the licence conditions as it considers necessary or expedient for the purposes of any of the licensing objectives,. Scottish Government March 2026 Page 44
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Annex Draft Standard Conditions/ Safeguards for World Cup 2026 Matches For Section 68 applications these draft conditions/ safeguards are provided to support a consistent and proportionate approach for later opening connected with the screening of FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. These are intended to be potential additional conditions which may be imposed and are not intended to replace the mandatory licence conditions or other existing conditions. Children and Young Persons Children and young persons under the age of 18 shall not be admitted to the premises/ venue during any period of later opening connected with World Cup matches. Purpose and Scope Later opening is authorised solely for the purpose of screening World Cup matches and associated customer management and dispersal. The premises/ organiser shall ensure that the event is conducted in a manner consistent with the licensing objectives, including the prevention of crime and disorder, securing public safety, preventing public nuisance and protecting and improving public health. Authorisation to Screen For premises licence holders, the premises shall only operate later for match screening where the premises already has a relevant licence and is already authorised within its operating plan to provide televised sport/ television (or where an appropriate variation has been granted). Management and Supervision A designated manager/ event lead shall be on duty from 22.00 hours until close and shall be responsible for compliance with these conditions and for liaison with Police Scotland, the Licensing Standards Officer and licensing officers where required. Prior to the commencement of each event night, staff shall be briefed on admission controls, capacity management, noise control and dispersal arrangements, and incident escalation procedures. A personal licence holder shall be present on the premises from 22.00 hours until close. Page 45
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The premises/ organiser shall ensure that sufficient staff are on duty to manage the premises/ venue safely, having regard to the expected attendance, capacity and terminal hour. Capacity and Queue Management The premises/ organiser shall ensure that the permitted capacity is not exceeded at any time and shall deploy sufficient staff to monitor and control occupancy throughout. Where high attendance is anticipated, the premises/ organiser shall implement controlled admission and queue management measures to prevent obstruction, disorder and nuisance at the frontage. The premises/ organiser shall ensure that any temporary arrangements associated with the screening (including seating, barriers and queuing systems) do not compromise safe means of escape. The premises/ organiser shall ensure that patrons waiting to gain entry are managed so as to avoid public nuisance, disorder or obstruction, including at the frontage and in any nearby public areas. No alcohol shall be sold or supplied for consumption off the premises during any period of later opening connected with matches. The premises/ organiser shall operate a refusals policy and shall record refusals of alcohol and any incidents arising. Safety, Security and Welfare Door supervision shall be provided from 23.00 hours until close where required by risk assessment having regard to the nature, location and capacity of the premises/ venue, anticipated attendance and the terminal hour sought, and shall be increased where Police Scotland advise that such measures are necessary to support the licensing objectives. A person trained in first aid shall be present on the premises/at the event from 23.00 hours until close. An incident/ refusals record shall be maintained for each event night and shall be produced to Police Scotland and/ or Licensing Standards Officers (lsos) on request. The premises/ organiser shall operate a zero-tolerance approach to drugs and weapons, with staff instructed to contact Police Scotland where appropriate. The premises/ organiser shall take reasonable steps to prevent the consumption or possession of illegal drugs on the premises/ at the event and shall co-operate with Police Scotland in any enforcement action. Page 46
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Noise Control and Prevention of Public Nuisance Doors and windows shall be managed to minimise noise breakout after 22.00 hours, particularly during/ after the match and during dispersal. Any external smoking/ vaping area shall be supervised and managed to prevent nuisance, disorder and obstruction. External areas (including smoking/ vaping areas) shall be actively monitored and managed to prevent nuisance and disorder. Patrons shall not be permitted to congregate out with the premises in a manner likely to cause nuisance. No amplified music or commentary shall be played in any external area during the period of later opening. The premises/ organiser shall ensure that any noise-generating activities associated with the screening (including chanting or announcements) are managed so as to minimise disturbance to nearby residents. Dispersal A written safety dispersal plan shall be in place for each event night where later opening is authorised. The plan shall cover staffing at exits at closing, management of external areas and frontage, and steps to minimise noise and disorder in the vicinity. More generally, wider consideration of local transport plans and availability of public transport service provision should also be considered. The premises/ organiser shall actively manage dispersal at the end of the event/ closing time by deploying staff (and door staff where engaged) at exits and the immediate frontage to encourage prompt and quiet departure and to prevent patrons lingering. Clear closing/ dispersal announcements shall be made in advance of closing to support orderly winding-down and departure. Page 47
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© Crown copyright 2026 This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open- government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk. Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned. This publication is available at www.gov.scot Any enquiries regarding this publication should be sent to us at The Scottish Government St Andrew’s House Edinburgh EH1 3DG ISBN: 978-1-80643-931-7 (web only) Published by The Scottish Government, March 2026 Produced for The Scottish Government by APS Group Scotland, 21 Tennant Street, Edinburgh EH6 5NA PPDAS1720646 (03/26) w w w . g o v . s c o tPage 48