SIA seeks input from local councils on Martyn's Law preparation
Published
The Security Industry Authority has asked to hear from local councils and their clerks as it develops its role under Martyn's Law, according to the Society of Local Council Clerks.
What happened
The Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) has shared a research request from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA is the body set to regulate the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as Martyn's Law. It is gathering views to help shape how it works with the sector before the duties take effect.
Why the SIA is asking now
The Act received Royal Assent in April 2025, but the duties are not yet in force. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed. That gap gives the regulator time to research how premises operate and to build a workable approach. Reaching out to local councils and their clerks is part of that work.
What it means for venues
Many village halls, community centres and event spaces are run by or linked to parish and town councils. If your venue falls into this group, the people who manage it may be asked to contribute their experience. This is about understanding real-world premises, not enforcing anything today. Nothing is required of you yet.
What to do now
If you clerk for or run a council-linked venue, keep an eye out for the SLCC's communications and consider sharing your perspective if invited. In the meantime, use this preparation period to get familiar with the two tiers: standard for premises expecting 200 to 799 people at once, and enhanced for 800 or more, counting staff. Knowing roughly where your venue sits is a useful first step.
This is our plain-English summary. Read the original in full at SLCC | Society of Local Council Clerks.