Aberdeen pubs and restaurants will be allowed extended opening hours during Scotland’s World Cup matches this summer after approval by Aberdeen City Council’s licensing board.
A blanket 3am closing time extension was agreed, with premises permitted to remain open until half an hour after the final whistle to allow for drinking up and dispersal.
The move covers Scotland’s group fixtures, including a 2am kick-off against Haiti on 14 June and late-night matches against Morocco and Brazil.
Licensing board convenor Neil Copland said the city was “really looking forward” to the tournament.
“It’s a major opportunity and we’re very happy to support that,” he said.
“Hopefully all the fans will be happy.”
Scotland qualified for their first World Cup in nearly 30 years with a 4–2 win over Denmark at Hampden Park, with the tournament taking place across Canada, Mexico and the USA.
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Bricks and mortar hospitality businesses in Aberdeen are the big winners in this welcome decision by the licensing board to allow extended opening hours as Scotland goes for World Cup glory this June.
“Aberdeen Inspired has championed this move from the kick off and we are delighted that pubs and bars will be able to go for the goal of boosting their footfall and business in what have been tough times for many.
“I have no doubt the Tartan Army in Aberdeen will seize the chance party as Scotland do the whole nation proud in their World Cup run.”