Extending pub opening hours into the early hours could be putting added strain on emergency services, according to new research.
A study led by the University of Glasgow has found that longer licensing hours in Aberdeen were linked to noticeable increases in both crime and alcohol-related ambulance call-outs.
Between March 2017 and October 2020, 38 pubs and bars in Aberdeen were granted permission to serve alcohol until 03:00. During that period, researchers recorded an 11.4% rise in ambulance call-outs on weekend nights and an 8.5% increase in reported crime.
The findings come as cities across Scotland consider extended opening hours again, including during major events like the World Cup.
Clear Link Between Later Hours and “Negative Outcomes”
The research, published in BMJ Public Health, concluded there was a clear connection between extended drinking hours and increased pressure on emergency services.
Dr Md Nurnabi Sheikh, from the University of Glasgow’s School of Health and Wellbeing, said:
“Our findings in Aberdeen demonstrate a clear link between additional opening hours and increased negative outcomes.”
He added that the scale of the issue may depend on how many venues are allowed to stay open later — and what type of venues they are.
Different Story in Glasgow
Interestingly, the same study found no significant impact in Glasgow after 10 nightclubs were allowed to stay open until 04:00 in 2019.
Researchers believe the difference comes down to scale and control. In Glasgow, only a small number of venues were granted extended hours, and strict safety measures were in place. In Aberdeen, the larger number of pubs involved and longer extensions appear to have had a stronger effect.
However, even in Glasgow, frontline services reported increased pressure during late-night hours.
Shift in Peak Drinking Problems
The study also found that peak times for alcohol-related ambulance call-outs in Aberdeen shifted later into the night — moving from between midnight and 01:00 to between 01:00 and 02:00.
Call-outs were significantly higher among men and those under 45, reflecting wider trends around higher-risk drinking behaviour in younger groups.
Calls for Tighter Control
Professor Niamh Fitzgerald from the University of Stirling, who led the wider study, warned that large-scale extensions could lead to increased harm.
“Our study shows that local authorities need greater powers to control the number and type of venues that are allowed to open later at night,” she said.
Authorities Defend Current Approach
Despite the findings, Aberdeen City Council said it has “robust” measures in place to manage the night-time economy, working closely with Police Scotland and local businesses.
Officials say that for major events like the World Cup, appropriate policing and safety plans will be implemented to handle increased demand.
The Scottish government has also confirmed that decisions on licensing hours remain with local licensing boards, supported by national guidance.
The debate now continues: while extended hours may boost the hospitality sector, the research suggests they could also come with a cost — particularly when applied on a larger scale.
