Takeaway Pints Ban: Government Ends Hatch Sales in September
England and Wales pubs face a major blow as the government scraps the popular takeaway pint scheme this September. Introduced during the pandemic in July 2020, the license allowing pubs to serve pints through street hatches will not be extended. From now on, venues must seek local council approval to keep selling takeaway drinks.
End of an Era for Street Drinking
The scheme gave pubs the green light to sell drinks outdoors without extra permission, provided they had a license for outdoor seating. After two extensions, the curtain falls this September. Pubs with on-site licenses will need to overhaul their current permits if they want to keep flogging takeaway pints.
Industry Outraged as Red Tape Returns
The British Beer and Pub Association slammed the move. CEO Emma McClarkin said pubs need help to innovate—not “more red tape and unnecessary regulations.” She urged the government to steer clear of hiking duties and piling on costs for breweries and pubs already struggling.
Thousands of Venues Could Apply for New Licenses
Planning documents estimate 8,500 to 12,800 pubs might apply for local approval to keep takeaway sales going. Yet, the government admits it lacks solid data on how many customers still want takeaway pints.
Decision Backed by Councils, Residents, and Retailers
The Home Office made its call after talks with local councils, resident groups, and drinks retailers. Most favoured a return to pre-pandemic rules, ending the brief chapter of takeaway pint freedom.
Hospitality Worried About Future Red Tape
While hospitality welcomed the relaxed rules during the pandemic, industry body UKHospitality fears this move signals a rollback on efforts to cut business red tape. Pubs and bars now scramble to adjust before the takeaway pint hatch slams shut in September.
