Lib Dems call on City Council to prepare for new terrorism law

At this week’s Full Council meeting, Liberal Democrat councillors called on Milton Keynes City Council to start preparing for the new Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law.

The new legislation, which received Royal Assent earlier this year, aims to improve public safety by requiring venues, including outside spaces to consider and prepare for the threat from terrorism.

Martyn’s Law, is named after Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.

The new law requires venues such as community centres, sports grounds, schools, street markets, places of worship, businesses, and local authorities to take steps to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks.

Venues will be expected to implement security measures depending on their size.

Those with a capacity of 200 up to 799 will be required to conduct basic terrorism risk assessments, identify protection measures, and implement plans to secure the premises during an incident.

Whereas venues with a capacity of 800 or more must undertake rigorous risk assessments, monitor CCTV, and create detailed security and response plans.

Councillor Jane Carr, Leader of Milton Keynes Liberal Democrat Group, who proposed the motion, said:

“Martyn’s Law is a vital step forward in keeping the public safe. But we’re concerned about the financial and practical challenges smaller, and community run organisations may face. We also have a duty to keep the business community, Parish and Town Councils and local organisations informed and supported through this change, so they’re not left struggling.

“The Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services has confirmed that officers have already started to prepare, and we thank them for their proactive approach. We also recognise the work of some Parish and Town Councils, but it’s clear that from conversations I’m having that not everyone understands the upcoming changes.”

Following discussions with the Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services it was confirmed that officers have identified 112 premises so far which are likely to be affected.

On Wednesday night, the motion received cross-party support and was passed unanimously by the City Council.