A new law aimed at ensuring stronger protections against terrorism in venues across the UK is set to be introduced, the Home Office has announced.
It will be known as ‘Martyn’s Law’.
The new law will be named in tribute of Martyn Hett, who was one of 22 people tragically killed in the Manchester Arena attack back in 2017 – and will be introduced following the tireless campaigning of his inspirational mother, Figen Murray.
By working closely with security partners, business and victims’ groups – including Figen Murray and the Martyn’s Law Campaign Team, as well as Survivors Against Terror – the Home Office said the new law will require venues across the UK to “take steps to improve public safety”.
It adds that measures will be dependent on the size of the venue and the activity taking place.
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Describing the terror threat level as “complex and ever-evolving”, with recent attacks having shown that terrorists may choose to target a broad range of locations, the Home Office explained that Martyn’s Law will ensure that security preparedness is delivered “consistently” nationwide to ensure better protection of the public.
The plans for the introduction of the new law have been developed following what the government has called “extensive engagement” across the industry, charities, local authorities, security experts, and with survivors.
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It’s also been developed through public consultation – with 70% of the thousands who responded agreeing that those responsible for venues and publicly-accessible locations in the UK should take measures to protect the public from potential attacks.
Today, we announced how #MartynsLaw will help protect public spaces from terror attacks.
Named in of honour of Martyn Hett, who lost his life in the Manchester Arena attack, this is what the law will do ⤵️
“Martyn’s Law isn’t going to stop terrorism,” Figen Murray said on the news of the law’s introduction.
“But common-sense security, and making sure venues are doing all they can to keep people safe, could mean fewer suffer what myself and the families of Manchester have had to endure [so] I welcome the government’s commitment to including smaller venues and working quickly on this legislation.
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“It is vital we now take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and others wherever possible and I hope other countries learn from this ground-breaking legislation.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says he is “committed” to improving security measures at public venues and spaces.
“The way the city of Manchester came together as a community in the wake of the cowardly Manchester Arena attack, and the amazing work of campaigners like Figen Murray who have dedicated their lives to making us safer and promoting kindness and tolerance, is an inspiration to us all,” Mr Sunak commented.
“I am committed to working with Figen to improve security measures at public venues and spaces and to delivering this vital legislation to honour Martyn’s memory and all of those affected by terrorism.”
I spoke to @FigenMurray last week to thank her for her tireless work to make venues safer through Martyn's Law.
She is an inspiration and I am committed to delivering this vital legislation in tribute to Martyn's memory. https://t.co/JhwxGOHCtW
According to the Home Office, Martyn’s Law will follow a tiered model linked to the nature of the activity that takes place at a location and its capacity – which is aimed at preventing “undue burden” on businesses.
Martyn’s Law will extend to and apply across the whole of the UK.
The government says it will publish draft legislation in early Spring 2023 to ensure the law “stands the test of time”.
Featured Image – Family Handout / gov.uk
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No trams to run on major Metrolink line as ‘essential’ work to repair Victorian-era tunnel starts this weekend
Emily Sergeant
Travel disruption is expected across the next couple of weeks as ‘essential engineering’ work begins on a major Metrolink line.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has confirmed that a reduced service will run on the Bury line this weekend, as work to replace ‘defective’ beams supporting the roof at Whitefield Tunnel means that no trams will run between Crumpsall and Bury on Saturday (10 May), or between Whitefield and Bury on Sunday (11 May).
Some weekend and overnight working is said to be ‘necessary’ to secure and protect the overhead line equipment, so that the beam replacement work can be completed as ‘safely and quickly as possible’, according to TfGM.
A crane is planned to be in use for the beam replacement work at times.
Closures on the line from this weekend come after the successful completion of preparatory work at the site, following the discovery of a defective beam.
No trams will run on a major Metrolink line as ‘essential’ work to repair Victorian-era tunnel starts this weekend / Credit: TfGM
As well as the suspension on services this weekend, as mentioned above, several other chances throughout this month and into the next on the Bury line are also to be expected.
No tram services will operate between Crumpsall and Bury on Sunday 25 May, and no again from Friday 30 May to Sunday 1 June, while no trams will run between Whitefield and Bury from Monday 26 to Thursday 29 May.
For the duration of all closures, replacement bus services will run between the affected stops on all the above dates.
Any so-called ‘noisier’ work is set to take place during daytime and evening working hours where possible, and several noise reduction measures – such as acoustic blankets and enclosures – also to be put in place during this.
Essential upgrade work to protect the historic Whitefield Tunnel means no trams will run between Crumpsall–Bury (Sat 10 May) and Whitefield–Bury (Sun 11 May).
We're replacing a defective beam to keep the line safe and reliable.
As always, the Greater Manchester public is being advised to ‘plan ahead’ if they are travelling.
“Whitefield Tunnel dates back to the 19th century,” explained Ian Davies, who is TfGM’s Network Director for Metrolink, “and this essential work will ensure tram services can continue to safely pass through it for decades to come.
“This is a complex job, but we will do everything we can to minimise disruption to passengers, residents and businesses.”
He added: “I would encourage people who use the Bury line to plan ahead and check the Bee Network website, app, and social media channels for the most up-to-date travel information.”
AO Arena to host huge Europa League Final fan zone after Manchester United victory
Daisy Jackson
Manchester’s legendary AO Arena will once again host an almighty football fan zone later this year, welcoming in fans for the Europa League Final.
The huge venue previously hosted a Road to Victory fan zone for the Euros, and is now ready to replicate all the atmosphere and excitement of the beautiful game once again.
This time it’s in honour of Manchester United, who romped their way into the Europa League Final this evening with a spectacular 4-1 victory (7-1 on aggregate) over Athletic Club.
The Red Devils will be heading to that same team’s home stadium of San Mamés in Bilbao in Spain on 21 May 2025, and you’ll be able to watch all the action right here at home in Manchester.
The AO Arena Europa League Final Screening & Fan Zone will be presented by Red Square.
If you think that name rings a bell, you’re right: they’re the same folks behind the regular events held over at Victoria Warehouse for any big United games, and 21 May will be no different – other than being arguably their biggest date ever.
There’ll be space for thousands upon thousands of football fans who’ll be able to watch Ruben Amorim’s side potentially take home their first piece of silverware since his arrival.
If you saw the scenes at Road to Victory in the AO during Euro 2024, you’ll know how unbelievable a venue this is to watch the footy.
As the promoters have billed it: “Get ready to immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of the Europa League Final, presented by Red Square.
“Join us for an unforgettable event as we bring together passionate Manchester United fans for the largest indoor fan park extravaganza ever witnessed!
“MANCHESTER UNITED head to the UEL final on Wednesday, 21st May – Secure your tickets now!”
The Europa League Final Screening & Fan Zone will be at the AO Arena on 21 May.