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RESOLVED:

1.      This Council notes
that:
a)           
On 3 April 2025, Martyn’s Law gained Royal
Assent. Officially titled the Terrorism (Protection of Premises)
Act 2025 – Martyn’s Law aims to improve public safety
by requiring venues, including outside spaces, to consider and
prepare for the threat from terrorism. Such venues include
community centres, sports grounds, town halls, schools, street
markets, temporary events, places of worship, and of course, civic
offices.
b)           
Venues with a capacity of 200 up to 799 people will
be required to conduct basic terrorism risk assessments, identify
protective measures, and implement plans to secure the premises
during an incident.  Venues with a
capacity of 800 people or more, must undertake rigorous risk
assessments, monitor CCTV, and create detailed security and
response plans.
c)            
The Government has outlined a 2-year implementation
period before the law becomes sanctionable to allow venues and
organisations time to prepare.  However,
this timeframe will be seriously reduced if the terror risk
increases, therefore venues need to be ready.

2.      This Council believes
that:

a)           
Whilst measures must be taken to improve public
safety, the cost and administrative implications for this council
are currently unknown is significant.

b)           
The requirements for this new legalisation may be
disproportionately challenging for local organisers such as
charities and organisations, especially those who hold ad hoc
events, or annual fundraisers. Furthermore, the practical and
financial implications on Parish and Town Councils, small and
medium sized businesses, and community groups must be acknowledged,
as many operate on limited budgets.

3.      This Council resolves to
ask the executive to:

a)      Acknowledge and commend
the work already undertaken by many Parish Councils to implement
sensible measures in light of Martyn’s Law.

b)      Acknowledge the
significant work already undertaken and the sharing of best
practice and guides between the Parish Councils –
specifically the clerks and the support from NALCs and insurers
already completed.

c)      Brief City Councillors,
the Parishes Forum and Parish and Town councils, on the upcoming
legal requirements and the impact Martyn’s Law will
have.

d)      Prepare an impact
assessment outlining the operational and financial implications on
how Martyn’s Law will affect venues managed or operated by
Milton Keynes City Council and consult with the Chair and Vice
Chairs of Community and Partnership Scrutiny Committee for the
issue to be subject to scrutiny.

e)      Engage with Parish and
Town Councils, local businesses, community groups, and voluntary
organisations to gather feedback on potential challenges and
resource needs.

f)       Use appropriate
communications channels to raise public and stakeholder awareness
of Martyn’s Law and share support available to assist them
comply with the new legal requirements.