Nottingham business body flags Martyn's Law as one to watch for local venues

Marketing Nottingham has shared an update highlighting Martyn's Law for businesses and venues in the area. It is a reminder that the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is on the horizon, rather than an announcement of any new rule. The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025, and its duties are expected to begin in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed.

If you run a pub, church hall, cinema, community space or organise events, the law will eventually ask you to take reasonable steps to prepare for the possibility of a terrorist attack. Two tiers are planned. The standard tier covers places where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at once. The enhanced tier covers 800 or more. Both counts include staff, not just the public.

Seeing Martyn's Law raised by a local business body is a useful nudge. Nothing is enforceable today, and the Security Industry Authority's notification process is not yet open. But the earlier you understand roughly where your venue sits, the calmer the run-up to commencement will be.

Have a rough think about your busiest headcount, including staff, to see which tier is likely to apply. Note who would take the lead on preparation. There is no need to register or notify anyone yet. Keep an eye out for official detail from the Home Office and the SIA as the 2027 start approaches.