Takeaway pints extended until March 2025

Pubs, restaurants and bars across England and Wales will be able to continue selling takeaway pints following the government’s decision to extend Covid licensing rules.

It comes after industry bodies criticised the change in legislation initially due to come into force from 30 September as “unnecessary red tape”.

In 2020, venues without an off-premises licence were allowed to sell takeaway alcohol without having to apply for permission from their local council.

It meant some businesses were able to keep trading during coronavirus restrictions and sell drinks in pavement areas where they had a licence to place tables and chairs.

Without these provisions, pubs with only an on-sales alcohol license would have had to apply to their local council to continue with takeaway sales.

The Prime Minister’s announcement of an 18-month extension to the scheme means that off-site consumption rules will remain relaxed until March 2025.

The Home Office revealed the government has an ultimate goal of creating a “unified pavement licence” that includes licensing consent for both the sale and consumption of alcohol in an alfresco area.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “I’m determined to back British pubs and make sure they have all the support they need after weathering the storm of the pandemic as we grow our economy.

“That’s why we’re cutting unnecessary red tape so that customers can enjoy a takeaway pint or al fresco drink without businesses facing extra burdens.”

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, tweeted on X, formerly Twitter: “Really welcome from 10 Downing Street today halting a ban on hospitality off sales “The PM will always back British pubs. He’s listened to the industry and heard them loud and clear – now is not the time to call last orders on takeaway pints & boost to business that they bring.”

Amy Lamé, night czar of London, added: “Excellent news for our hard-hit hospitality businesses: Pub takeaway drinks rules will be continued, allowing them to trade their way to recovery.”

The extension will be introduced via amendments to the Licensing Act 2003 when parliament returns from recess next month and come into force once the legislation is laid.