Temporary event notice

For the attention of premises licence holders and designated premises supervisors

The council is aware that a number of premises have applied, or intend to apply, for Temporary Event Notices (TENs) in connection with the screening of FIFA World Cup 2026 fixtures. Due to time zone differences, some fixtures will take place during late night and early morning hours.

This guidance is issued by the Public Health Nuisance Team to highlight key management guidance where premises are operating under a TEN. It is intended to complement, not replace, the advice already provided by the Licensing Team.

The use of a TEN does not remove the obligation to promote the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of public nuisance, ensuring public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder. This document provides guidance to premises granted TENs to assist in achieving these objectives.

Premises must take all reasonable steps to prevent disturbance to nearby residents, particularly during late night and early morning hours. Amplified sound, including match commentary, televisions and any music, must be maintained at a level that does not cause nuisance. Doors and windows should be kept closed where practicable, except for access and egress. External areas, including smoking areas, must be actively managed to prevent excessive noise, shouting or chanting.

Whilst some screenings may take place in external areas of the premises, this is strongly discouraged, as it significantly increases the likelihood of public nuisance and may adversely affect the consideration of future TEN applications for subsequent matches or other events should the council receive complaints in relation to public nuisance. Premises should also implement an effective dispersal strategy to ensure customers leave the premises quietly and without delay.

Entry to the premises should be appropriately controlled, particularly during later hours. Adequate staffing levels must be maintained to effectively manage customer behaviour both inside and immediately outside the premises. Customers should not be permitted to congregate outside the premises in a manner likely to cause nuisance.

Premises are expected to cease licensable activities in accordance with the hours authorised by their TEN. Events should conclude promptly at the end of the match and customers should be encouraged to leave in an orderly and considerate manner. Entry to the premises must cease at the final whistle and patrons should be advised to leave within 30 minutes of the final whistle to reduce the likelihood of excessive intoxication and disorderly behaviour.

No new entry should be permitted during extra time or penalties. Whilst a TEN may authorise the use of the premises to cover extra time and penalties, the council expects that the premises will close within 30 minutes of the final whistle and that no new entry will be permitted during this period.

Please note that the council will monitor the impact of late-night World Cup events. Any substantiated complaints relating to noise, nuisance, disorder, or poor management may be taken into account when determining future TEN applications and may result in objections where appropriate.

The council expects all premises to manage these events responsibly and with due consideration for local residents. Failure to do so may result in enforcement action under relevant legislation. The council may also consider further action under the Licensing Act 2003 where complaints are received in relation to the matters outlined in this letter.

We hope to receive your cooperation in relation to these matters and urge you to adhere to the guidance.