A popular Yorkshire pub has been forced to scale back late-night England World Cup plans following fears over noise from football fans.
A popular Leeds pub has agreed to reduce its late-night opening plans for England World Cup screenings after concerns were raised about noise from football supporters.
Kirkstall Bridge Inn had originally hoped to keep outdoor screenings running until 3am during several England matches this summer. However, following objections from council environmental officers, the plans were revised to include much earlier finishing times.
The pub had submitted Temporary Event Notices allowing the sale of alcohol, entertainment and late-night refreshments during key England fixtures being shown in the venue’s outdoor car park area.
But concerns were raised due to the pub’s close proximity to nearby residential homes, with officials warning that large crowds, loud celebrations and outdoor entertainment could create disturbance late into the night.
Following discussions with Leeds City Council’s Environmental Health team, revised finishing times were agreed for the affected matches.
The updated closing times now include:
- Wednesday 17 June – 11:20pm
- Tuesday 23 June – 11:20pm
- Saturday 27 June – 11:59pm
The agreement meant the issue no longer needed to go before councillors at a scheduled licensing meeting at Leeds Civic Hall.
According to reports submitted during the licensing process, as many as 450 people, including staff, had been expected to attend the outdoor screenings.
Officials reportedly raised concerns about potential public nuisance caused by loud football celebrations, music and late-night activity surrounding the events.
The pub, which is operated by Kirkstall Brewery, already holds permission to show indoor sporting events until 2am, although use of outdoor areas is normally restricted after 11pm.
England’s World Cup fixtures are expected to draw huge crowds across Britain this summer, with pubs once again preparing for packed beer gardens, large-screen events and extended opening hours during major matches.
Football tournaments have long provided an important boost for the hospitality trade, particularly for community pubs and sports venues that rely heavily on major sporting events to increase trade.
However, late-night screenings often create tension between pubs and nearby residents, especially in built-up residential areas where outdoor events can generate significant noise.
Industry groups including CAMRA have repeatedly highlighted the importance of supporting pubs during major sporting events while also balancing the concerns of local communities.
For many pubs across Britain, this summer’s World Cup could provide a valuable opportunity to attract customers during a challenging period for the hospitality industry.
