Preston members clubs tier-three restrictions alcohol loophole to be closed by government

A loophole in the restrictions had meant venues with a club premises certification would have been allowed to re-open to serve booze to members Pic: Pixabay

A loophole that was revealed this week, allowing social clubs and working mens clubs in Preston to stay open and serve alcohol, is being closed by the Government.

There was confusion amongst members-only clubs as to whether they could open or not, after they were given the go ahead to serve booze without a meal to members, it seems that this will no longer be the case.

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There's confusion about whether social clubs in #Lancashire are allowed to serve alcohol.

Pubs and bars in Tier 3 must close unless they serve substantial meals.

But some councils have told clubs they can continue to sell alcohol to members, even if they don’t serve food. pic.twitter.com/rmUPLy9HXi
— BBC Lancashire (@BBCLancashire) October 29, 2020

The Preston City Council website had stated: “Premises that hold a ‘Club Premises Certificate’ do not sell alcohol, instead they supply alcohol to their members.”

“Therefore the requirement to close does not apply to these premises and nor do these premises need to provide a substantial meal to club members when they are drinking, under the Tier Three restrictions.

“Any guests bought into the club by club members must be provided with a substantial meal when purchasing alcohol.”

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However, as news of the loophole got out, the government decided to amend the rule, and are currently in discussion with Preston City Council, and other councils affected by this.

Councillor Peter Moss, Deputy Leader of Preston City Council and Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulation, said: “We take our role in supporting businesses to meet regulations and enforcing where they choose not to, very seriously.

“This has become increasingly difficult over the last number of months with multiple updates to regulations implemented at speed and we have worked closely with partners such as the police and other councils to take as consistent an approach as possible.

“Following discussions with government we understand regulations will be amended so that all venues providing alcohol, including private member clubs, may only do so when purchased with a substantial meal.

“As soon as the full information is available we will ensure our website and advice is updated.”

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A number of members clubs in Preston, which include, Conservative clubs, Labour clubs, Working mens clubs and Sports clubs, had announced that they will be opening again over the weekend.

What do you think about social clubs being allowed to stay open? Let us know in the comments below