14 Apr Martyn’s Law: The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025
On 3 April, The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, otherwise known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent. The Act will apply to venues and premises with a capacity of over 200 people and will ensure these premises are better prepared in the event of an attack. To allow the relevant venues to prepare, there will be a two-year bedding in period from the date of Assent, before the law is enforced.
What is the law?
The Act codifies what many venues will already have in place to protect the public: “The objective is to reduce the risk of physical harm being caused to individuals if an act of terrorism were to occur on the premises, at the event or in the immediate vicinity of the premises or event”.
Where and how does it apply?
The Act will require those responsible for certain venues and events to take practical steps to improve security and protect the public from potential terrorist threats.
The Act applies to publicly accessible places that meet specific size criteria, with a two-tier system based on the number of people expected on-site:
- Standard Tier (200-799 people): Must notify the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and have clear public protection plans such as evacuation, lockdown, and communication strategies.
- Enhanced Tier (800+ people): Requires additional security measures tailored to the venue or event, with documented compliance and a deeper understanding of potential threats and mitigation strategies. These should be regularly reviewed.
Next steps
Government guidance will be provided in due course to assist those in scope to understand the requirements set out in the legislation. The guidance is being designed to be easy to follow, needing neither niche expertise nor the use of third-party products or services.
As more information on the Act is shared, Hammersmith BID will continue to monitor and to liaise with security partners such as Safer Business Network to provide updates and any relevant training.
If you are a BID levy payer and have any questions, please contact Hammersmith BID and we will do our best to support you.