Highland pubs to find out if they can stay open for World Cup games

Hundreds of pubs and bars in the Highlands are to find out next week if they can stay open for Scotland games at the men's 2026 World Cup.

Highland licensing board is to be asked if it should consider individual applications for extended hours, or approve a general extension of licenced hours for all on-sales premises.

In a report to Tuesday's meeting, officials said the first option would increase the workload for staff - and incur a £10 application fee for premises.

More than 530 on-sales premises in the Highland Council area have televised sport included in their operating plans, according to the report.

If the board opted for a general extension, its members would also have to decide if it should cover just Scotland games or include other matches in the competition.

Officials have recommended that any licensed premises seeking to use any general extension granted completes an online notification form.

Last week, Highland councillors agreed to reject an extra day off this summer to mark Scotland's first match at World Cup.

First Minister John Swinney previously said Monday 15 June should be designated as a national bank holiday, and the proposal was later approved by the King.

In a report, Highland Council's corporate resources committee was told the estimated cost of approving the day of leave could run to £150,000.

Officials said approving the holiday could have a impact on essential services such as bin collections and schools.