Pubs handed 4am limit for opening times extensions

PUBS in West Lothian can apply for extended licensing hours over the festive period – but will not be allowed to remain open beyond 4am.

Applications to the licensing board must be received 28 days in advance of the date where extended hours are being sought.

Premises with a 2am opening on weekends will be eligible to apply for a further two-hour extension and until 2am from Monday to Wednesday.

The policy will apply from Friday, December 14, until Wednesday, January 2.

All other pubs can apply to serve drinks until 2am every evening for the same period.

Any premises opening beyond 1am will have additional conditions imposed – a CCTV system must be installed and a licence holder must be positioned at every entrance to the premises from 10pm until the time at which the premises close.

Pubs will not be permitted to admit customers after 1am.