Later last orders for pubs and clubs in licensing shake-up

Pubs and clubs can apply to stay open later under new licensing rules which came into force this week.

A policy shake-up at Perth and Kinross Council has extended licensing laws across the region, which could mean clubs can remain open until 2am on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Until now, they have had to close at 11pm.

Fridays and Saturday closing will remain capped at 3am under the new rules, but nightclubs can apply to stay open until 2am on Wednesdays, instead of 1.30am, and 3am on Thursdays instead of 2.30am.

Pubs will also benefit from the new policy, which impacts around 600 premises, as they can apply for an extended licence to stay open until midnight on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, instead of 11pm.

Closing time will continue at 12.30am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and midnight on Sundays under the new rules, which were drawn up following a public consultation.

The licensing board convener, Conservative councillor Kathleen Baird, said: “As a board we have licensing objectives that we are required to promote through our policies.

“Alongside this, we recognise and support the contribution which licensed premises make to the local economy, through employment, tourism and community vitality.

“I would advise any premises licence holder wishing to operate under the new policy terms to seek appropriate advice and bear in mind that they may have to submit a variation application.”

The new rules came into force on Sunday and will be reviewed again in five years.