St Johnstone Fan Zone: Aberdeen Alcohol Plan Rejected

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Post on Nov 27, 2024

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St Johnstone Fan Zone: Aberdeen Alcohol Plan Rejected

The St Johnstone Football Club's ambitious plans for a new fan zone incorporating alcohol sales in Aberdeen have been met with rejection, sparking debate amongst supporters and local authorities alike. This decision, announced last week, has left many questioning the future of fan engagement and the club's overall vision for improved matchday experiences. This article delves into the details of the rejected proposal, explores the reasons behind the council's decision, and examines the potential implications for the club and its fanbase.

The Rejected Proposal: A Detailed Look

St Johnstone's proposed fan zone aimed to create a vibrant and inclusive pre-match atmosphere for supporters attending games at their Aberdeen ground. Central to the plan was the inclusion of a licensed area offering alcoholic beverages, a feature intended to enhance the social aspect of the matchday experience and potentially boost revenue. The proposal included detailed plans for security, crowd management, and responsible alcohol consumption, addressing potential concerns about public disorder. The club also highlighted the positive economic impact the fan zone could have on the local community, creating jobs and attracting more visitors to the area on matchdays.

Key Features of the Rejected Plan:

• Licensed Bar: A fully licensed bar offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Food and Beverage Stalls: Various food and drink vendors providing a diverse range of options for supporters.
• Family-Friendly Zone: A designated area for families with children, ensuring a welcoming environment for all ages.
• Entertainment: Live music and other entertainment planned to create a lively atmosphere.
• Improved Security Measures: Enhanced security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.

Reasons for Rejection: Council Concerns

Aberdeen City Council cited several concerns in their decision to reject the alcohol license application. These concerns primarily revolved around:

• Proximity to Residential Areas: The proposed location of the fan zone was deemed too close to residential properties, raising concerns about potential noise disturbances and anti-social behavior.
• Public Order Concerns: Despite the club’s comprehensive safety plan, the council expressed reservations about the potential for alcohol-related disorder, particularly late at night.
• Existing Licensing Provisions: The council highlighted existing licensing policies and regulations which, they argued, made the granting of an alcohol license inappropriate for the proposed location.

Implications for St Johnstone and Supporters

The rejection of the alcohol license application presents a significant setback for St Johnstone's plans. The club will now need to reconsider its approach to developing the fan zone, exploring alternative options that comply with local regulations. This could involve a revised location, reduced capacity, or eliminating alcohol sales entirely. The impact on supporters is also considerable, with many expressing disappointment at the missed opportunity to enhance the matchday experience. The club's response and potential next steps will be crucial in maintaining positive relations with its fanbase.

Looking Ahead: Potential Next Steps

Several avenues remain open for St Johnstone. These include:

• Appealing the decision: The club could formally appeal the council’s decision, presenting additional evidence to address their concerns.
• Revised Application: Submitting a revised application addressing the council's concerns, potentially focusing on a different location or a modified alcohol policy.
• Alcohol-Free Zone: Proceeding with the fan zone as planned but without alcohol sales, focusing on other amenities to attract supporters.
• Community Engagement: Engaging with local residents and the council to build consensus and address any outstanding concerns.

The St Johnstone fan zone saga highlights the complex interplay between football clubs, local authorities, and community interests. Finding a solution that balances fan experience with community concerns remains a significant challenge for the club. The outcome will undoubtedly set a precedent for future fan zone developments across Scotland, impacting how clubs approach enhancing the matchday experience for their supporters.