Nightclubs set to close due to Omicron concerns

The Scottish Government has announced that nightclubs are set to close from 27 December due to concerns over the transmission of the Omicron coronavirus variant.

Around 150 nightclubs in Scotland will be affected, although premises will have the option of opening to operate with table service and physical distancing, in line with the requirements for other hospitality businesses.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: "Having engaged with the sector, we have concluded nightclubs should close.

“While it would be open to them to operate with physical distancing and table service - and that option will remain - we believe closure in regulations, combined with financial support, could reduce losses and help nightclubs weather what we hope will be a short period until they are able to operate normally again.

"The Scottish Government is acutely aware of the financial implications for many businesses. We will work with the nightclub industry to develop targeted financial support for businesses that will now be required to close.

“We are providing additional support of £375m, including £100m announced last week, to support businesses directly impacted by Omicron and will publish a full breakdown and allocation of funding as soon as possible."

The regulations will come into effect at 05:00 on 27 December, before being reviewed after three weeks on Tuesday 11 January.