In celebration of the upcoming King's Coronation, hospitality venues will be granted extended opening hours over the bank holiday weekend in celebration. Pubs, bars and clubs across England and Wales will see their licensing hours extended from closing at 11pm to 1am between Friday 5th and Sunday 7th May.
Responding to the Government's consultation on licensing over the coronation period, UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: "The King's coronation will be a spectacle celebrated by millions and hospitality will no doubt be at the centre of a historic moment for the country.
"I'm pleased the Government is proposing to extend licensing hours and UKHospitality is fully behind the plans. Not only will it benefit customers, but it also means businesses will be able to trade for longer, increase footfall and generate additional sales.
"At a time when the sector has been ravaged by the cost of doing business crisis, as well as recruitment challenges and strike disruption, this extension would provide a much-needed boost and aid hospitality's recovery."
The now confirmed change comes after a month-long consultation with members of the public, 77% of whom backed the extension.
Emma McClarkin OBE, chief executive officer of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: "This is a timely boost for the pub industry. In the midst of an acutely challenging period, I am sure our pubs will look to mark this joyous occasion by hosting special events and parties as part of national celebrations.
"The announcement of extended opening hours will help us all to mark this important event. It is sure to be a time for community and celebration, and the great British pub is always right at the heart of both, so I would encourage everyone to head down to their local and raise a toast to His Majesty during the Coronation weekend."