Pubs could stay open until 2am for World Cup after councils told to not be ‘fun police’

Councils have been told not to be ‘fun police’ and allow licenses for outdoor events ahead of the World Cup this summer.

Pubs will be able to stay open until 2am if any of the home nations reaches the knockout stage of the tournament, which kicks off in the US, Canada and Mexico next week.

Communities Secretary Steve Reed urged local authorities not to stand in the way of ‘sensible’ gatherings.

The government is planning a package of measures aimed at boosting the hospitality industry over the course of the competition.

These include making it easier for establishments to sell ‘pavement pints’ and offer al-fresco dining, including extending the current pavement license cap of two years.

Mr Reed told councils to ‘show fun police the red card’ and get behind pubs and said local authorities which unnecessarily block plans will be ‘held to account’.

He argued fans shouldn’t have to be turfed inside in the middle of a nail-biting penalty shoot-out.

‘This time, it really could be coming home’, he added.

With some local authorities known for sticking rigidly to closing times due to noise concerns, ministers are urging decision-makers to take a ‘common sense’ approach during knockout matches and urging councils to put through temporary events notices quickly.

Sir Keir Starmer said red tape should not obstruct ‘fans enjoying the game with friends and local pubs doing a great trade too’.

It comes as England and Wales lost a pub for each day of last year, with more than 360 closing their doors permanently in 2025.

The BBPA said 161 establishments had closed within the first three months of this year alone, costing more than 2,400 jobs.

Last month, a 15% business rate relief for pubs and music venues came into force as the government attempted to step up support for the sector.

A spokesperson for the Local Government Association said it would be working to ensure licensing decisions are made in the interest of ‘local conditions and community needs’.

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