Pubs in North Staffordshire could soon see their opening hours increase as one local authority supports a proposal by the Home Office.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council backed a consultation to allow opening hours to be extended by two hours during the King's Coronation. This means pub goers who are enjoying the extra bank holiday can also enjoy a few extra drinks.

In a recent meeting of the council's Licensing and Public Protection Committee councillors backed the officers recommendation to support the consultation with Councillor Stephen Sweeney (Con) commenting "it is extremely common sense"

The report states: "Officers agree that the celebrations of His Majesty The King's Coronation is an occasion of exceptional significance." 

If the Home Office approves the opening hours increase it would apply to all licensed premises in England and Wales which are able to operate until 11pm the ability to operate until 1am during the coronation on Friday 5 to Monday 8 May 2023.

The Jug, Newcastle, is one of the venues that could remain open until 1am (The Jug).

The 'relaxation' would only allow for already licensed premises and would not apply to the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises, businesses which open after 11pm or unlicensed premises.

Opening hours extended this way has happened on previous occasions with the latest use being the late Queen's platinum jubilee in 2022, however it is not just reserved for royalty as the 2020 UEFA European championship final also had opening hours extended.

The Home Office consultation runs to 23 January and only after the responses have been analysed will the final policy intention be announced.

READ MORE: Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service looking for more on-call firefighters

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