No Ne’erday cheer
Nightclub closed due to Old Firm clash
A popular Rutherglen nightspot has decided to close on Hogmanay because of the Rangers/ Celtic clash on the same day.
Harley’s Sky Bar had been set to see in the bells with a beach party.
But owner Alex McDowall said he didn’t want to risk the potential for trouble after the Old Firm clash at Ibrox earlier in the day.
Alex had previously told the Reformer of his concerns about the decision to hold the match on December 31.
He described the decision as “extremely silly”.
And in a Facebook post to punters he said: “It is through sadness that we have taken the decision to close Harley’s Skybar for Hogmanay.
“We feel public safety is paramount and is the only reason we have taken this decision. Still cannot believe that the licensing and police have both agreed that a Rangers v Celtic game is permitted on this day.
“What happened to the five rules of licensing?
“Thanks to all our regulars for their support and please have an enjoyable but safe Hogmanay.”
The bar will now open on January 1, a day it traditionally closes so the staff can enjoy a night out.
Speaking to the Reformer, Alex said: “To be honest, I was holding off [making the decision] because I thought they would maybe change it and see sense.
“A lot of people are telling me it in the most sensible thing to do.
“It is annoying. Coming from a business point of view, come 9pm it wouldn’t be busy anyway.”
Alex also denied publicans had objected to the Hogmanay kick-off, which has been chosen by police, purely because of a potential decrease in profit.
“If that was a fair comment, then I would still open,” he said.
The kick- off time of 12.15pm on December 31 has met with widespread criticism from the licensed trade, the Scottish Police Federation and some fans.
Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey had also questioned the decision and called for the match to be moved.
However, Police Scotland assistant chief constable Bernard Higgins said: “When these fixtures were first published in the summer, we had a number of discussions with the football authorities.
“Upon reflection, it was agreed this was the most suitable time and day to deliver a safe event and minimise the impact on the wider community for a number of reasons.
“Firstly, the early kick off limits the potential for over-consumption of alcohol, which can help reduce anti-social behaviour or violence.
“Also, the transport infrastructure will be operating normally whereas a reduced service would be in place on January 1.
“As people have commitments around family celebrations and gatherings, they are more likely to enjoy the football match and return home promptly.
“To emphasise, this is about public safety and between now and December 31, we will plan carefully with the clubs and the authorities.” The following planning applications have been given the go ahead in the Rutherglen and Cambuslang area:
Erection of two storey side extension ( amendment to CR/ 16/ 0076), 5 Grenadier Park, Cambuslang. Applicant, Mr Richard Cheng.
Formation of access ramp and the erection of replacement 3.6 metre high tennis court fencing, Cambuslang Lawn Tennis Club, Central Avenue, Cambuslang. Applicant, Mr Fraser Russell.
Erection of raised deck to rear of dwellinghouse (amendment to CR/16/0051), 9 Cadzow Drive, Cambuslang. Applicant, Mr John Loughrie.
Conversion of integral garage to form habitable room, 37 Furrow Crescent, Cambuslang. Applicant, Mrs Nikki Brown.
Conversion of garage to home office, 38 Furrow Crescent, Cambuslang. Applicant, Mr Barry Paul.
Alterations to basement level accommodation, removal of external steps and formation of new external door and windows, 5 Under wood Road, Rutherglen. Applicant, Mrs Kirsty Gordon.