Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: June 18, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED: 1.      This Council notes that: a)            On 3 April 2025, Martyn’s Law gained Royal Assent. Officially titled the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – Martyn’s Law aims to improve public safety by requiring venues, including outside spaces, to consider and prepare for the threat from terrorism. Such venues include community centres, sports grounds, town halls, schools, street markets, temporary events, places of worship, and of course, civic offices. b)            Venues with a capacity of 200 up to 799 people will be required to conduct basic terrorism risk assessments, identify protective measures, and implement plans to secure the premises during an incident.  Venues with a capacity of 800 people or more, must undertake rigorous risk assessments, monitor CCTV, and create detailed security and response plans. c)             The Government has outlined a 2-year implementation period before the law becomes sanctionable to allow venues and organisations time to prepare.  However, this timeframe will be seriously reduced if the terror risk increases, therefore venues need to be ready. 2.      This Council believes that: a)            Whilst measures must be taken to improve public safety, the cost and administrative implications for this council are currently unknown is significant. b)            The requirements for this new legalisation may be disproportionately challenging for local organisers such as charities and organisations, especially those who hold ad hoc events, or annual fundraisers. Furthermore, the practical and financial implications on Parish and Town Councils, small and medium sized businesses, and community groups must be acknowledged, as many operate on limited budgets. 3.      This Council resolves to ask the executive to: a)      Acknowledge and commend the work already undertaken by many Parish Councils to implement sensible measures in light of Martyn’s Law. b)      Acknowledge the significant work already undertaken and the sharing of best practice and guides between the Parish Councils – specifically the clerks and the support from NALCs and insurers already completed. c)      Brief City Councillors, the Parishes Forum and Parish and Town councils, on the upcoming legal requirements and the impact Martyn’s Law will have. d)      Prepare an impact assessment outlining the operational and financial implications on how Martyn’s Law will affect venues managed or operated by Milton Keynes City Council and consult with the Chair and Vice Chairs of Community and Partnership Scrutiny Committee for the issue to be subject to scrutiny. e)      Engage with Parish and Town Councils, local businesses, community groups, and voluntary organisations to gather feedback on potential challenges and resource needs. f)       Use appropriate communications channels to raise public and stakeholder awareness of Martyn’s Law and share support available to assist them comply with the new legal requirements.