Local authorities are being urged to swiftly approve outdoor World Cup screenings and beer garden events this summer, as the government encourages public celebrations.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed called on councils to avoid being “the fun police,” stating they should not obstruct “sensible” outdoor gatherings ahead of the men’s football tournament later this month.
Ministers are also proposing to cut red tape for businesses offering “pavement pints” and al-fresco dining.
This includes extending the two-year licence period for establishments wishing to serve customers on the street, simplifying outdoor space utilisation.
Furthermore, pubs will be allowed to stay open until 2 am if any home nations reach the knockout stages.
Councils are specifically asked to quickly process temporary event notices for later opening hours and special screenings. While final approval rests with local authorities, officials warned that councils unnecessarily blocking plans will be “held to account” by the government.
It is understood further details about this will be set out by Mr Reed in a letter to local leaders.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said red tape “should not get in the way of fans enjoying the game with friends and local pubs doing a great trade too”.
“A pavement pint in the sunshine discussing the agony of penalties and soaking up the atmosphere is what pubs are all about and we are backing them,” he said.
“Let’s hope we get a summer of fans enjoying great England wins on the big screen in packed pub gardens.”
Mr Reed said: “We’re asking councils to support as many applications for special events as possible, because the last thing any of us want to see is people being turfed indoors half way through penalties.
“So let’s show the fun police the red card, get behind England and back our pubs. This time, it really could be coming home.”
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said ministers were asking councils to apply a “common sense” approach during knockout matches, with some local authorities imposing closing times based on “strict noise concerns”.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) announced plans to change the licensing period for pavement licences in a bid to reduce bureaucracy.
Currently, a pavement licence can be granted for a maximum of two years.
The Government wants to increase this and said it would confirm details including a maximum term length and plans for legislation in due course.
It is also expected to consult on the case for introducing a minimum term for pavement licences, which does not exist at present.
A spokesperson for the Local Government Association, which represents councils across England, said: “Councils support communities coming together to enjoy the World Cup and will be working with pubs and residents to make licensing decisions based on local conditions and community needs.”
