Aberdeen FC withdraws fan zone alcohol scheme

Aberdeen has been aiming to improve the fan experience at games

Aberdeen Football Club's bid for a temporary alcohol licence for a trial pre-match fan zone outside Pittodrie Stadium has been withdrawn, BBC Scotland News has learned.

The application for an occasional licence had been lodged with the city council to hold an event ahead of the St Johnstone fixture on Saturday 7 December.

It would have served alcohol between noon and 14:45, before the 15:00 kick-off.

Aberdeen City Council said in a statement: "The application has now been withdrawn." Aberdeen FC has been asked for comment.

Home fans would have been invited to claim a free ticket for the fan zone through the club’s ticketing platform.

Aberdeen has been aiming to try to improve fan engagement and the match day experience.

Aberdeen's unbeaten Scottish Premiership record ended with a 2-1 defeat to St Mirren at the weekend.

The Dons are second in the Scottish Premiership.

Scottish football is already restricted by the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980, which for more than 40 years has prohibited the sale of alcohol within football grounds.

There is an exemption for corporate hospitality areas. Other Scottish clubs have previously run similar trials.

Alcohol is available at other sporting events in Scotland, such as at rugby matches.

A Scottish government spokesperson said: "We have no plans to change the ban on alcohol sales at Scottish football grounds.

"We regularly meet with the Scottish Professional Football League to discuss a wide range of issues, including the sale and consumption of alcohol at football matches.

"We will continue to engage with the football authorities, supporters’ groups and clubs on ways to enhance the fan experience."