The UK government has launched a review that could lead to longer opening hours for pubs and bars. The pub licensing reform aims to modernize outdated rules and give venues more flexibility to host events and serve food outdoors.
Therefore, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the plan would “cut red tape” and “boost footfall” to strengthen local economies. He emphasized that pubs are central to community life and that supporting them helps drive national growth.
Furthermore, the government opened a four-week call for evidence, allowing landlords, residents, and industry leaders to share their views. Officials hope the findings will guide practical steps to remove unnecessary restrictions on the hospitality sector.
Moreover, the review focuses on nine recommendations from the Government’s Licensing Taskforce. These include simplifying alcohol licensing for hospitality venues, reducing fees, extending business rate relief, and cutting alcohol duty on draught pints.
Therefore, Nick Mackenzie, co-chair of the Licensing Taskforce and CEO of Greene King, welcomed the move. He said the pub licensing reform would ease financial pressures and encourage investment across the sector. Rising costs, he added, have made it increasingly difficult for pubs to survive without government backing.
However, critics have warned of potential risks linked to the proposed changes. Dr Richard Piper, chief executive of Alcohol Change UK, said the measures could create a “charter for chaos.” He argued that extending alcohol sales would increase antisocial behaviour, crime, and alcohol-related hospital admissions.
Under current laws, pubs in England and Wales operate under licenses with specific hours determined by local authorities. There are no nationwide fixed hours, meaning each venue must apply for its own permissions.
The British Beer and Pub Association reports that the number of pubs has declined every year since 2000. It projects that 378 pubs will close in 2025, resulting in more than 5,600 job losses.
Supporters of the reform say the changes could help reverse this trend by attracting more customers and giving businesses space to innovate. Opponents caution that without careful regulation, longer hours could lead to more alcohol-related harm.
As consultations begin, the government faces a balancing act—reviving the struggling hospitality industry while protecting public safety and community wellbeing.
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