Martyn’s Law and The Role HVM Bollards Play in Public Safety

Public safety is a responsibility that cannot be overlooked. Devastating attacks like the 2017 Manchester Arena attack have led governments and businesses to seek ways to strengthen public space security, while ensuring accessibility isn’t compromised. Leading the charge for safer spaces and tighter security measures in the UK is Martyn’s Law.

In this post, we’ll discuss the proposed law, what it means for the public, and what should be done to create safer public spaces for everyone. 

What is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law, known officially as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, is a proposed legal framework by the UK Government. It has been named for Martyn Hett, who was one of the 22 victims of the tragic Manchester Arena attack in 2017. The campaign was first launched by Martyn’s mother, Figen Murry, as a tribute to her son and the other victims. This bill was introduced to the UK Parliament in September 2024, and is currently processing through the legislative process. The hopes are that it will be enacted into law in spring 2025.

This law is designed to enhance the preparedness and security of public venues against terrorist threats. The aim is to ensure public events and premises are better prepared for attacks, and able to respond quickly and effectively to terror threats or incidents.

UK terror attacks

Counter Terrorism Policing states that since 2017, the UK has suffered 15 domestic terror attacks, with law enforcement and other agencies disrupting an additional 43 late-stage plots. This is a startling and terrifying number, and why it is so essential that the Martyn’s Law bill is legislated. 

The evolving nature of these threats and attacks, which have targeted a broad range of locations, really emphasises the need for venues to be properly prepared. Through engagement with businesses and independent research, the UK government is aware that counter-terrorism security measures often fall to the bottom of the list below legally required activities. By enacting Martyn’s Law, it can be ensured that these measures are always taken seriously and a top priority for venues and businesses.

What are the key requirements of Martyn’s Law?

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill introduces a tiered approach to security obligations, based on the activity and the number of individuals expected. The person responsible for meeting the requirements may be an individual, but could often be an organisation. 

Let’s take a closer look at the tiers.

Standard duty premises

For venues that expect between 200 and 799 people simultaneously, the responsible persons will be required to:

• Notify the regulator of their premises of the event or occasion.
• Implement appropriate and reasonably practicable public protection procedures to be followed by staff in the event of a terrorist attack. These will include protocols for evacuation, invacuation (moving people to a safe location within the building or space during an emergency), or lockdown.

These requirements focus on simple actions surrounding procedures and policies, aiming to improve the preparedness and responses of the staff working. 

Enhanced duty premises

For larger venues and events of 800 or more simultaneous individuals, the same actions as standard duty premises apply, with additional measures required including:

• Regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and procedure documents.
• Reasonably practicable measures to mitigate identified risks to venues and individuals in the space or nearby, which may include physical security enhancements, such as anti-terror bollards.

Where will Martyn’s Law apply?

The Bill will apply to premises that are defined as buildings or groups of buildings, including land associated with the building/s. This could include gardens, courtyards, car parks, entrances, walkways, waiting areas, and queuing or gathering spaces outside the building/s.

The premises must be wholly or mainly used for activities that qualify under the legislation requirements. These activities include: retail, hospitality and nightlife, entertainment and leisure, museums and galleries, sports grounds, places of worship, schools, health services, temporary events, and visitor attractions such as zoos. However, to fall under Martyn’s Law legislation, these spaces must expect at least 200 people to be there simultaneously.

For events to fall within the Bill’s scope, they must take place within the premises defined above, host at least 800 individuals simultaneously, be accessible to members of the public, and meet the law’s express criteria. This express criteria refers to a condition in the legislation that states access to an event is controlled and granted only to those who have explicit authorisation to enter, such as ticketed events, invitation only events, and events that require a membership or pass.

The role of anti-terror bollards in public safety

While Martyn’s Law places a strong emphasis on risk assessments and procedural security measures, physical security enhancements also play a crucial role in protecting public spaces. One such measure is Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM), which helps prevent the use of vehicles in targeted attacks.

HVM solutions, such as anti-terror security bollards, are already in place across many high-risk locations, including stadiums, venues, and transport hubs. These anti-ram bollards are designed to stop or greatly slow down vehicles, creating a safer environment for pedestrians and event attendees. Under the enhanced tier of Martyn’s Law, venues may need to consider incorporating practicable measures like anti-ram bollards to address their identified security risks.

Unlike temporary barriers, permanent bollards blend into the urban landscape, providing security without disrupting accessibility. They are a subtle yet effective method of reinforcing protection, complementing other security strategies such as CCTV, trained staff, and controlled entry and exit points.

For more information on anti-terrorism bollards, anti-ram street furniture like benches and planters, and their role in public safety, you can explore Rhino’s range of HVM solutions here or give us a call on 01603 484999 to speak to a professional.

A proactive approach to security

Martyn’s Law is a significant step in ensuring public spaces are better prepared against potential threats and attacks. With a tiered approach to security, venues and event organisers will have a clear framework to follow, ensuring that counter-terrorism measures are no longer an afterthought.

Once the law is enacted and businesses and organisations work towards its compliance, it will be essential to consider a comprehensive, integrated security approach. It must incorporate both procedural preparedness and physical security enhancements. Measures like risk assessments, staff training, and evacuation plans form the foundation of an effective response strategy, but physical deterrents also play a crucial part in mitigating threats. 

Protective infrastructure, such as anti-terror bollards, barriers, and access control systems, can help protect high-risk locations by preventing unauthorised vehicle access and reducing the potential impact of hostile threats. When combined, these measures create a multi-layered defence, enhancing the safety of public spaces and offering greater defence against attacks.