Glasgow pubs to stay open for extra hour at Commonwealth Games

Pubs, clubs and restaurants in Glasgow will be able to open for an extra hour during this summer's Commonwealth Games.

The city's licensing board has granted an extension from 23 July until 2 August, covering the duration of Glasgow hosting the multi-sport event.

It will apply to venues with a premises licence allowing the sale of alcohol on site. Board members made the decision at a meeting earlier.

They previously agreed to a general trading extension for on-sale licensed premises during the World Cup, which runs from 11 June to 19 July.

The extension will allow clubs, pubs and other on-sales venues which already televise sport to remain open and keep trading for up to an extra 30 minutes after the end of play for the duration of the tournament.

Ahead of the Commonwealth Games decision, a report to the board stated: "The championships are expected to attract many competitors and tourists to the city of Glasgow to take part in or watch the various events during the period.

"The Commonwealth Games 2026 presents an opportunity for a vibrant 'city' feel to promote a successful championships and a successful host city."

The extension does not apply to casinos that open until 06:00.

Thousands of athletes are set to compete across a 10-sport Commonwealth Games programme, after Glasgow stepped in to host a scaled-back event when the Australian state of Victoria withdrew.

The Licensing (Scotland) Act allows boards to consider extending licensing hours "in connection with a special event of local or national significance".

Story by Local Democracy Reporter Drew Sandelands.