What Is Martyn’s Law and How Will It Transform Public Venue Security

Who Must Follow Martyn’s Law and What Does It Cover?

Martyn’s Law, formally called the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, introduces security requirements for public venues in the UK. Named after Martyn Hett and supported by campaigner Figen Murray, it was created to reduce risk and improve preparedness at public events.

The law covers venues with capacity for 200 or more guests. It defines two compliance categories: standard tier for venues with 200 to 799 attendees, and enhanced tier for those expecting 800 or more.

What Types of Venues and Events Are Affected?

Standard Tier Premises (200 to 799 capacity)

• Community centres and leisure halls

• Faith-based spaces that hold public gatherings

• Local theatres, clubs, and small arenas

Enhanced Tier Premises (800 or more capacity)

• Large stadiums and concert venues

• Outdoor music festivals and national exhibitions

• Convention centres used for public-facing events

Private bookings in closed premises are generally excluded unless the space is used in a public context.

What Security Measures Are Required for Compliance?

Standard Tier Requirements:

• Conduct a basic risk assessment tailored to your site

• Create an emergency plan that is accessible and clear to staff

• Ensure all staff are trained to:

  • Recognise potential threats

  • Stay alert to unusual behaviour

  • Follow emergency procedures

Enhanced Tier Requirements:

• Complete a detailed assessment that identifies vulnerabilities

• Implement safety infrastructure such as:

  • Entry control zones

  • CCTV surveillance

  • Screening points

• Establish well documented emergency procedures including:

  • Lockdown instructions

  • Multiple evacuation routes

• Hold practice sessions and review plans often

• Include emergency evacuation training as part of your venue’s incident response planning

How Should Event Planners Prepare Before 2027?

The law offers a two year transition period. To stay on track, consider this phased structure:

Within Six Months:

• Confirm your venue's capacity and tier classification

• Check existing processes for any safety gaps

Between Six and Eighteen Months:

• Deliver staff training focused on public safety

• Partner with security teams who hold SIA credentials

• Develop and test early versions of your emergency plans

Final Six Months:

• Host trial runs of evacuation and access control measures

• Finalise all documentation

• Review everything with safety advisers and community policing contacts

Dividing your timeline this way helps avoid last minute problems.

What Role Do Security Guards Play in Martyn’s Law?

Trained security staff are essential under Martyn’s Law. Their contributions include:

• Monitoring entry routes and guest arrival zones

• Observing behaviour patterns and reporting concerns quickly

• Leading emergency evacuations and crowd control if needed

• Patrolling outer areas to detect vulnerabilities

SIA licensing is mandatory for guards performing these roles. Their presence not only supports compliance but improves public trust.

What Are the Costs and How Can You Stay Within Budget?

Cost forecasts differ based on venue size:

Typical Annual Spend:

• Standard tier: £330 (approximate)

• Enhanced tier: £5,200 (average)

Budget Management Tactics:

• Rotate part time guards to reduce hours

• Use video surveillance where appropriate

• Collaborate with local forums to cut advisory costs

• Focus investment on key control areas and risk prone entry points

Spreading improvements across 24 months can make compliance affordable.

How Can You Keep Guests Safe Without Creating Panic?

Public reassurance is vital for a positive event experience. Consider these tips:

• Speak clearly with staff about roles and response plans

• Use simple signs to mark exits and help points

• Prepare guests ahead of time by sharing safety expectations

• Avoid jargon or security heavy language that could create worry

An informed and calm audience is more likely to cooperate during an emergency.

Where Can You Find Local Help and Partnership Support?

Working with regional partners enhances safety readiness. Useful contacts include:

• Local authority resilience teams

• Community safety groups run by councils

• Police led event safety programmes

• Safety alliances in large towns or cities

• Regional venue safety networks and counter terror advice services often offer shared training and planning support

These connections offer practical help and real time updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Martyn’s Law

Do pubs and bars need to comply?

Yes, if they regularly hold public events with 200 or more guests.

Are volunteers considered trained staff?

They can be, provided they complete recognised safety training.

What happens if a venue fails to comply by 2027?

The venue could face financial penalties or legal action.

Can compliance be phased in for growing venues?

Yes. Plans should scale as risk and capacity increase.

How often should evacuation drills be done?

Annual drills are advised for enhanced venues, and after layout changes.

Where to Get Professional Guidance and Resources

Venues can stay compliant by:

• Visiting GOV.UK for guidance on Martyn’s Law

• Working with local police and security consultants

• Contacting an SIA licensed provider for planning help

• Seeking tailored advice to build an anti terror venue strategy and maintain public event safety compliance

Martyn’s Law encourages practical preparation, not overreaction. Whether your venue is large or small, early planning helps create safer spaces for everyone.