Business group explains Martyn's Law to Aberdeen and Grampian members

The Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has shared an explainer on Martyn's Law, the everyday name for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. It sets out what the law is and how it may apply to businesses and venues in the area. This is the kind of awareness activity now spreading through local business networks as more organisations look ahead to the new duties.

The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025. It is named after Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. It splits premises into two tiers: a standard tier for places where 200 to 799 people may be expected at the same time, and an enhanced tier for 800 or more. That headcount includes your staff, not just customers.

The duties are not in force yet. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, and the exact date is still to be confirmed. The Security Industry Authority will be the regulator, but its notification process is not yet live. So there is nothing to submit today. The value of explainers like this is simply raising awareness so you are not caught out later.

Start by working out roughly how many people your premises can hold at once, including staff, so you know which tier you are likely to fall into. Keep an eye on updates from official sources and trusted business groups. Treat this as familiarisation and preparation, not a rush job. There is time to get ready before the duties take effect.