Decision Maker:

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 11, 2026

Purpose:

Content: Salford City Council - Record of Decision   I, Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development, in exercise of the powers contained within the Council Constitution, do hereby authorise:   The continuation of the City of Salford (Various Roads) Traffic Regulation Order 2019 Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO) following the 12 month review by Salford City Council, Manchester City Council and Greater Manchester Police, in line with the original decision to introduce the ATTRO.   The Reasons are:      The anti-terrorism traffic regulation order was introduced following a request from the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police to potentially control the movement of pedestrians and vehicles on City streets as part of a package of measures aimed at improving the security of people in crowded places and protecting damage to buildings from a potential terrorist attack.   The Order would give to an officer of Greater Manchester Police of the rank of Inspector or above the power to restrict all or part of any City street at their discretion on the basis of a security assessment or intelligence of a threat. The discretion must be exercised in accordance with the Schedule and any agreed Protocol for the time being in force to ensure that any interference is proportionate and that such restrictions are for the minimum extent and for the minimum period necessary.   Within the ATTRO, there is a requirement for all parties to review the operation of the ATTRO on an annual basis review to ensure that the power was being used correctly and that it remained a proportionate and necessary power.   The ATTRO has been utilised for a limited number of events in the City Centre and threat level remains at SUBSTANTIAL, an attack is likely. Intelligence still indicates that crowded public spaces remain an attractive target for terrorists and that the use of vehicles, driving into crowds, remains a viable tactic.   Assessment of Risk: In considering the request for a continuance of the ATTRO, regard has been given to the duty to act in accordance with the European Convention on Human Rights. In relation to possible restriction of access to property, any interference with Article 1 rights to enjoyment of property must be justified. Interference may be regarded as justified where it is lawful, pursues a legitimate purpose, is not discriminatory, and is necessary.   It must also strike a fair balance between the public interest and private rights affected (i.e. be proportionate). It is considered that the public interest in being protected by the existence and operation of the ATTRO outweighs any interference with private rights which is likely to occur when restrictions are in operation.   The scope of restrictions must be proportionate and should only last until the likelihood of danger or damage is removed or reduced sufficiently in the judgment of a senior police officer.   It is considered that the Schedule to the ATTRO will ensure that any interference is proportionate, and, given the risks to life and property which could arise if an incident occurred, and the opportunity provided by the ATTRO to remove or reduce the threat of and/or impacts of incidents, the ATTRO is considered to be justified and any resulting interference legitimate.   The source of funding is – there is no cost associated with the continuation of the ATTRO.   Legal Advice obtained: Elise Petit-Gould – 8 January 2026    LEGAL POSITION   1. Statutory Powers and Legislative Compliance The proposed continuation of the ATTRO is made under Section 22C of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (as amended by the Counter?Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019),which permits restrictions on traffic to avoid or reduce dangers connected with terrorism. Section 122 of the 1984 Act requires the Council, so far as practicable and having regard to statutory considerations, to secure the expeditious and safe movement of vehicular and other traffic, including pedestrians. Based on the information provided, the Council has considered its duty under Section 122 to secure the safe and expeditious movement of traffic, including pedestrians and the proposals comply with these statutory duties.   2. Proportionality and Reasonableness The ATTRO operates on a contingent basis and is activated only when necessary, which limits routine disruption. The proposed annual review mechanism, chaired by the Protective Security Office Chief Inspector and involving relevant authorities, provides a formal structure for oversight. This process ensures the ATTRO remains proportionate, transparent, and effective, and allows adjustments if circumstances change.   3. Delegation and Constitution Requirements The proposed annual review process complies with the Council’s constitution and delegated powers, as it establishes a structured mechanism for oversight and reporting within the executive framework. The report is addressed to the correct Lead Members, and the process falls within current delegations. If any change in delegation is identified when verifying the latest registers, the decision and governance arrangements should be referred in accordance with the Council’s executive procedures.   4. Transparency and Accountability The introduction of an annual review process, chaired by the Protective Security Office Chief Inspector and involving relevant authorities, is consistent with the Council’s governance arrangements and will provide structured oversight, ensuring proportionality, transparency, and responsiveness to changing circumstances. The annual review process promotes accountability by formalising joint meetings and documentation with police and Council officers, ensuring ongoing assurance and transparency.   Subject to the above, the proposal appears to comply with the relevant legislative framework and the Council’s constitutional requirements.                                         Financial Advice obtained: N/A   Procurement Advice obtained: N/A   Contact Officer:     Robert Owen          Tel. 0161 779 4848                               Robert.owen@salford.gov.uk     This matter is also subject to consideration by the Lead Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment & Community Safety and, accordingly, has been referred to that Lead Member for briefing purposes.   The appropriate scrutiny panel to call-in the decision is the Growth & Prosperity Scrutiny Panel.      Signed: Councillor McCusker                 Dated: 11th February 2026 Lead Member for Planning, Transport & Sustainable Development     This decision was published on 13th February 2026.   This decision will come into force at 4.00 p.m. on 20th February 2026, unless it is called-in in accordance with the decision-making process rules.