Licensing arrangements relaxed to allow local pubs and restaurants to offer takeaway service

Following advice from the Scottish Government, the local authority will allow all pubs and restaurants to operate a takeaway service without having to apply for planning permission. This will take immediate effect and remain in place until further notice.

Moray Council’s Chief Executive, Roddy Burns, said the authority is committed to ensuring local businesses can mitigate the impacts of Coronavirus on their day-to-day activity.

“We’re doing all we can to minimise disruption, including recognising and responding to the difficulties our hospitality industry is facing, as the global pandemic worsens. By relaxing the rules around licensing, we hope many local businesses will take the opportunity to continue to offer their high-quality food and drink to our residents.

“Not only will this help to maximise their income, it will allow residents who are responsibly self-isolating or social distancing, continue to support the businesses they love and reduce the risk of exposure to Covid-19.

“Locally, our experienced partners in Business Gateway are ready to speak with business owners, and I’d advise business owners take this opportunity to seek advice on how to work through the coming weeks and months, and how they can access financial assistance during the extremely challenging times which lie ahead.”