Football fans in Aberdeen will be able to enjoy Euro 2024 in outdoor areas at pubs and bars after it was given the go-ahead by officials.
It comes after the city centre’s business improvement district (BID) Aberdeen Inspired called for the rules to be relaxed.
Today Aberdeen City Council’s Licensing Board unanimously backed the plans to relax the rules during the tournament, which will kick-off when Scotland face hosts Germany on June 14.
The board also agreed to relax the rule that outdoor areas at licensed premises must close at 10pm in the event of games that go to extra time or penalties after a draw.
Aberdeen Inspired chief executive Adrian Watson said “everybody wins” after today’s announcement.
He said: “I am grateful to the board for showing such overwhelming support for the city’s hospitality sector at a time when city pubs and bars need all the help they can get in these challenging times.
“Moreover, Scotland – and of course fans from other participating nations – will now be able to get together in outdoor settings at venues across the city to enjoy every kick of the Euros.
‘Major boost for hospitality in the city’
“I can only imagine what the atmosphere will be like – especially if the weather plays ball with some warm sunshine to help fans make great memories over the month-long tournament.
“Today’s decision is a major boost for hospitality in the city and a huge lift for football fans – everybody wins.
“Now let’s keep our fingers crossed Scotland can keep that winning streak going in Germany next month.”
Reacting to the decision, Councillor Martin Greig added: “The proposal to relax licensing policy during the Euros 2024 period was welcome and positive. In these difficult times, it is important to create opportunities for socialising and entertainment in safe and well-run premises.
“The pubs and bars will offer fun and safe environments for everyone to have a good time and enjoy the UEFA European Championships.”
Earlier this year, Aberdeen Inspired – which represents more than 900 businesses in the centre of the Granite City – ruled out being involved in setting up a fan zone for the championships.
The request to the council from Aberdeen’s BID came weeks after it was announced that there will be a Euro 2024 fan zone in the Granite City.
Fan park brand 4TheFans revealed last month that a fan zone will be set up at OGV Taproom on Bridge Street, whilst there will also be one at the city’s Unit 51.
The 4TheFans one – which will have a capacity for 500 supporters – will have anti-glare screens as well as an exclusive bar, food traders, DJs, competitions and giveaways at each match, with Scotland legends also attending.
As well as Germany, Steve Clarke’s men take on Switzerland on June 19 and Hungary four days later on June 23, and if they qualify from the group stage it will be the first time that Scotland have qualified for the knockout stages of a major tournament.
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