East Dunbartonshire Liberal Democrats call for World Cup fan parks and late night licenses

East Dunbartonshire Liberal Democrats have called for fan parks to be set up in East Dunbartonshire so fans can gather to watch Scotland’s World Cup games and for local pubs to get special dispensation to show their matches in the event that they are scheduled for late at night.

The party says parks could host huge screens to beam back the games from the USA, Mexico and Canada.

It has also called for pubs in East Dunbartonshire to be given special late night licenses to air Scotland’s games if it turns out that the time difference means they happen overnight.

Kick off times are currently expected to be 5pm, 8pm, 11pm and 2am.

Adam Harley, Scottish Liberal Democrat candidate for Strathkelvin and Bearsden said:

“After years of heartache, what a night and what a way to show Scotland belongs on the biggest stage of all. Just think how many kids are going to be trying to recreate McTominay’s ludicrous overhead or McLean’s epic lob.

“While a lucky few head over the Atlantic, the appetite for watching Scotland’s games back here in East Dunbartonshire is going to be off the scale. I want to see government and local councils work together to give fans across East Dunbartonshire the best chance to feel involved in the whole world cup experience.

“Fan parks could be set up so we can gather to watch our games on the biggest screens in stadiums or parks. Local pubs could be given special dispensation to show their matches in the event that they are scheduled for late at night.

"I could see people packing into community sports clubs. After a tough few years for pubs and hospitality here, what an opportunity this is for the government to work with them to make the most of this amazing achievement."