Maya Patel Discusses Safer Public Spaces: What the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act Means for You?
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, widely referred to as Martyn’s Law, introduces new legal duties for those responsible for public venues and events. Passed in April 2025, the Act is a landmark piece of legislation aimed at improving public safety by ensuring venues are better prepared to prevent and respond to terrorist threats.
Named after Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the Act was campaigned for by survivors and families of victims. Its central aim is to ensure that lessons from past tragedies are embedded into law, giving the public greater protection in crowded spaces.
What Is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law creates a legal duty for those who own, operate, or control certain premises and events to take proportionate measures against terrorism risks. The scope of the Act applies to:
- Public venues such as arenas, stadiums, theatres, concert halls, pubs, and nightclubs.
- Large events, including festivals, fairs, and gatherings open to the public.
- Premises with a public capacity of 100 or more people, with enhanced duties for larger venues (800+ capacity).
The law requires risk assessments, staff training, and preparation measures tailored to the size and nature of the venue or event.
Key Requirements Under the Act
- Terrorism Risk Assessments
Organisations must conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities. These assessments should be documented and reviewed to ensure that counter-terrorism measures are effective and up to date.
- Staff Training and Awareness
Staff must be trained to recognise suspicious behaviour and understand emergency procedures. Training should be proportionate—short online modules may suffice for smaller venues, while larger sites will need more extensive programmes.
- Security Plans and Procedures
Larger venues (800+ capacity) must implement and maintain a detailed security plan, covering measures such as bag searches, CCTV, evacuation routes, and coordination with local police.
- Cooperation with Authorities
Venues and event organisers are expected to work closely with law enforcement, including sharing information that may assist in preventing attacks. Failure to cooperate can result in enforcement action.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance
The Act grants regulators powers to investigate compliance and impose fines or other enforcement measures where venues fail to meet their duties.
Impact on Businesses and Communities
For Businesses and Event Organisers: While the Act introduces new compliance costs and administrative duties, it provides a clear framework for protecting staff and visitors. Failure to comply could lead not only to penalties but also reputational harm.
For the Public: The legislation aims to enhance safety and reassure people attending concerts, sporting events, or public gatherings.
For Local Communities: Martyn’s Law ensures that community spaces such as town halls, community centres, and places of worship consider security as part of their everyday operation.
Preparing for Compliance
Organisations should begin preparing by:
- Reviewing the capacity of their venues to determine which tier of duty applies.
- Carrying out a terrorism risk assessment if one is not already in place.
- Introducing or updating staff training programmes.
- Consulting with legal advisers to ensure compliance with the new framework.
Conclusion
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 marks a vital step in strengthening the UK’s resilience against terrorism. By embedding proportionate security measures into law, it balances the need for vigilance with the everyday enjoyment of public spaces. For businesses, early preparation will be essential—not only to comply with legal duties but to demonstrate a commitment to protecting staff, customers, and the wider community.
For further information on this topic or on any other legal area, please contact John Szepietowski or Kay Stewart at Audley Chaucer Solicitors on 01372 303444 or email admin@audleychaucer.com or visit our Linkedin page.
Maya Patel
This information is correct as at September 2025.
