Tiger Woods and Justin Timberlake get St. Andrews boost despite uproar from angry locals

Tiger Woods and pop star Justin Timberlake have been granted a drinks license at their new sports bar in Scotland despite backlash from residents.

The golf legend and the musician have teamed up to turn the New Picture House in St. Andrews into a bar and restaurant. St. Andrews is famed for its golf heritage and has been selected as the site of the pairs' second bar venture – already operating the T-Squared Social in New York.

Woods and Timberlake are shareholders in the company behind the plans to convert the cinema which received permission from Fife council last month to renovate the establishment. The alcohol license for the venue has now been granted with plans submitted to the council saying T-Squared Social would bring a “fun, family-friendly” destination.

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The proposal detailing how the design and choice of materials would protect and enhance the character and appearance of the category-B-listed cinema was accepted. Developers said the venue would open its doors in the summer of 2025 in its new form.

However, the plans did receive backlash, including from St Andrews Community Council member Neil Dobson, who took issue with the proposals. “What’s next, Trump buying the West Sands for a hotel? I find this very disrespectful and a bit cheeky, to be honest," Dobson told The Courier .

“This town has been very good to Tiger Woods, and this is not the way to repay residents. St Andrews is unique, and that building is iconic. An American bar is completely out of keeping. It will be full of American golfers with nothing left in the town for children at all."

Changes will see the seating of the old cinema replaced with comfortable seating groups allowing people to socialize. The main auditorium screen will still remain and show films as well as broadcast sports. Multi-functional spaces for golf simulators and electronic dart boards will also be added.

Dobson’s view wasn’t shared by others across the community council as calls for the town to evolve were strong. Approving the plans, Fife Council said: “The proposal is considered acceptable in terms of design, detailing and choice of materials; and would protect and enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.”

Christopher Anand, managing partner for T-Squared Social, said: “We are delighted to be announcing our intention to commence works later this year on this exciting new entertainment concept including the cinema.

“It will ensure that a cinema offering can remain in the town for this and for generations to come. As we progress with the construction works we look forward to continuing to engage with the local community and council on our ongoing activity.”