Progress update on Martyn's Law: why the change still matters
Published
A new report revisits the progress of Martyn's Law and the events that prompted it. Here is what it means for venues as they get ready for the duties expected in spring 2027.
What happened
The Manchester Evening News has published an update on the progress of Martyn's Law, the everyday name for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. The piece points back to the reasons the law was created, including the 2017 Manchester Arena attack in which 22 people died. One of those killed was Martyn Hett, whose name the law carries. The coverage serves as a reminder of why the new duties were brought in.
Where things stand
The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025, but its duties are not yet in force. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, and the exact date has not been confirmed. The Security Industry Authority will act as the regulator, and its notification process is not live yet. So nothing is enforceable on venues today.
What it means for venues
For pubs, churches, halls, cinemas and event spaces, this is a useful prompt rather than a call to act under pressure. The standard tier will cover premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time, and the enhanced tier 800 or more, with staff included in the count. Now is a good time to understand which tier your venue is likely to fall into.
What to do now
There is no deadline to meet yet, so use the time to familiarise yourself. Think about your typical busy capacity, including staff, and keep an eye out for official guidance from the SIA and Home Office as it appears. Treat this as steady preparation, not a scramble.
This is our plain-English summary. Read the original in full at Manchester Evening News.