Island Venues Urged To Prepare For New Counter-Terror Safety Law

Venues across the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to start preparing for new counter-terror safety requirements set to come into force in the coming years.

The legislation, known as Martyn’s Law, was introduced following a national campaign led by Figen Murray after her son, Martyn Hett, was killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.

The new law is designed to ensure those responsible for public spaces take proportionate and practical steps to reduce risk and improve preparedness for serious incidents.

Official guidance is still to be fully published, but Isle of Wight-based security firm Lifeline Alarm Systems says it is already working with venues across the Island to help them understand what will be required.

The legislation — formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 — received Royal Assent in April 2025 and is expected to come into force in Spring 2027.

Once active, venue operators will be required to carry out structured risk assessments, identify potential threats, and put appropriate security measures in place.

Staff and volunteers will also need to be trained to recognise and respond to risks.

Many Island venues — including schools, theatres, community halls, places of worship and sports facilities — are expected to fall under the “standard tier”, which applies to public spaces with a capacity of between 200 and 799 people.

Lifeline Alarm Systems says the aim is not to change the character of community venues, but to ensure sensible, proportionate safety measures are in place.

Mark Lee said Martyn’s Law represents the most significant change to venue safety legislation in a generation, and urged organisations to begin preparing early.

He said the focus should be on planning, awareness and proportionate risk management rather than last-minute compliance.

The legislation will also give authorities powers to inspect venues and issue enforcement notices or penalties where required.

Lifeline says it will be offering support and free information sessions to help Island venues understand their responsibilities ahead of the changes.