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Understanding the latest on Martyn’s Law
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025 and introduces new legal duties to strengthen security at public venues and events across the UK.
What is Martyn’s Law and why now?
Prompted by the 2017 Manchester Arena attack and subsequent inquiries, including the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the London Bridge and Borough Market inquests, the law aims to ensure that venues across the UK are prepared to reduce harm from terrorist threats. It builds on the UK’s broader counter-terrorism strategy.
Scope and Tiers
Martyn’s Law applies to qualifying premises and events used by the public – typically retail, hospitality, entertainment, leisure venues, sports grounds, and educational institutions – where anticipated attendance hits threshold limits.
Standard Tier (200–799 people)
- Requires notification to the Security Industry Authority (SIA).
- Appoint a Responsible Person.
- Establish Public Protection Procedures like evacuation, lockdown, safe routing, and communication plans.
- No mandatory physical infrastructure upgrades are required, focus is on proportionate preparations.
Enhanced Tier (800+ people or ticketed events)
- In addition to the above:
- Conduct vulnerability assessments.
- Implement physical and people-based protection measures (CCTV, bag checks, vehicle screening, etc.).
- Maintain documented procedures and an audit trail for compliance.
Who regulates and enforces?
The SIA has been appointed as the regulator for Martyn’s Law. From April 2025 onward, it will offer advice, support, and enforcement, issuing significant civil or criminal penalties for non-compliance.
Timeline & implementation
Although the Act received Royal Assent in April, requirements won’t take effect until at least April 2027, allowing a 24-month implementation period. During this time, regulatory frameworks, statutory guidance, and educational outreach will be rolled out via GOV.UK and ProtectUK platforms.
Why it matters
- The UK threat level remains at “substantial”, meaning an attack is likely and unpredictable in nature.
- Government estimates indicate over 250,000 premises will fall within scope, including small hospitality venues to major event spaces.
- Non-compliance can result in fines of up to £18 million or 5% of global turnover for enhanced duty venues, especially if negligence is found.
Beyond the UK
Interest in Martyn’s Law is growing globally. Figen Murray, Martyn Hett’s mother and campaigner for the law, has presented internationally on its principles, inspiring venues worldwide to adopt best-practice protective security, even in advance of formal legislation.
Watch the full interview with Danielle Bounds
For an in-depth and practical overview of how Martyn’s Law is being rolled out in real venues -including timeline clarifications, tier distinctions, and stakeholder responsibilities – check out this interview with Danielle Bounds:
Summary: What to do now
| Step | Action |
| 1. Assess Scope | Determine if your premises or event will fall into standard or enhanced tier based on likely attendance. |
| 2. Assign Roles | Nominate a Responsible Person and ensure internal accountability. |
| 3. Implement Procedures | Design public protection procedures (evacuation, lockdown, communication). |
| 4. Evaluate Added Measures | For enhanced tier locations, assess the need for CCTV, screening, vulnerability reviews. |
| 5. Document Everything | Maintain written records and risk-based decisions for audit purposes. |
| 6. Monitor Guidance | Regularly review updates on ProtectUK, Home Office, and SIA websites. |
Martyn’s Law represents a landmark moment for public safety in the UK. While the implementation timeline allows breathing space, proactive planning now – around governance, training, and planning – can make the difference in saving lives.
Learn more…
Danielle will be joining us at our Summer Conference on 5th September at the Crowne Plaza Stratford-upon-Avon to discuss more on Martyn’s Law and answer any questions you may have on the subject. If you want to be there, get in touch with the EDGE team to find out more.
