The legislation, known as Martyn’s Law, recently received Royal Assent to become the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 that will come into force in two years. This also allows time for the Security Industry Authority (SIA), to establish a regulatory framework to ensure implementation and enforcement of the law. The Act will apply across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to ensure consistency in keeping the public safe across all parts of the United Kingdom. The government said it had worked closely with stakeholders and the Devolved Governments throughout the development of the law.
Campaigning for Martyn’s Law follows Manchester Arena attack
Martyn’s Law aims to deliver increased protection by ensuring public premises and events are better prepared in the event of a terrorist attack. The law gained its name in memory of Martyn Hett who was one of 22 people murdered in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017.
Campaigning led by his mother Figen Murray OBE, for venues to be more prepared for terrorist attacks led the previous government to develop legislation. When Labour came to power last July the Prime Minister, Kier Starmer, promised to ensure the law was enacted.
Larger venues need to take more action
The Act will require public premises where 200 or more individuals may be present, to be better prepared and have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack. Larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present will be classed as enhanced tier and be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies or vehicle checks where appropriate.
Premises, such as schools and places of worship, will be classed in the standard tier category whatever their size. Other premises covered by the legislation include shops, sports grounds, museums, childcare, railway stations, hotels, entertainment and leisure venues, as well as events held in places like public parks.
A responsible person, who is deemed to be in control of the premises or the event will need to be identified. If the responsible person is not an individual there still needs to be a senior person named to ensure compliance with the law.
Passing of Martyn’s Law is welcomed
Figen Murray said: “For the last 6 years I have campaigned to introduce measures that will improve security at public venues and how they respond to a terror attack – Martyn’s Law.
“Over the implementation period it is vital that the government and Security Industry Authority provide all that is necessary for publicly accessible locations to implement Martyn’s Law.”
Mike Kill CEO of the Night Time Industries Association: “We appreciate the government’s recognition of the challenges businesses face and the commitment to a 24-month implementation period, allowing time for preparation and adaptation. As an industry we will continue working closely with the Home Office, the SIA, and key stakeholders to provide clear guidance and support. Ensuring the safety of our night-time economy and public spaces remains our priority, and we fully support this crucial legislation.”
Now the law has been enacted, businesses and venues will look to the government and the SIA to provide the guidelines to ensure they meet the statutory requirements, which will come into effect after 24 months, in 2027.
We are committed to supporting organisations prepare for the implementation of Martyn’s Law now it has received Royal Assent. Some of the steps needed may not be as onerous as some believe if organisations combine better staff training and communication with the use of advanced technology.
As an established designer and installer of advanced security systems we would be delighted to talk through the options available to help provide better protection for staff and customers within a venue. Please contact us to find out more.