Myth-Busting Martyn’s Law: Clearing Up Confusion For Event Organisers In 2026
Martyn’s Law – formally the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – has received Royal Assent, however it is not yet in force. The Act will only apply once commencement regulations are introduced, and the detail continues to be shaped through government processes, statutory guidance, and the development of the new regulatory function within the SIA. Until then, some uncertainty is understandable for event organisers and venue operators.
This article aims to cut through common misconceptions and set out what Martyn’s Law really means – and what it doesn’t.
Myth 1: “Martyn’s Law is already in force.”
Fact: Not yet.
Although the Act has received Royal Assent, it is not currently active legislation. Government has been clear that there will be an implementation period before commencement, allowing time for statutory guidance, sector engagement and regulator readiness.
During this period, ProtectUK, the Home Office and the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) will continue to refine guidance and support materials. Enforcement will only follow once the Act is formally commenced.
For organisers, this means there is time to prepare thoughtfully and proportionately, not a requirement to rush or overreact.
Myth 2: “All events and venues will have the same obligations.”
Fact: Martyn’s Law is explicitly risk-led and proportionate.
All events and venues are different, and there is not a one size fits all approach. The Act reflects principles embedded in national guidance and mirrors Crowdguard’s own Plan – Provide – Protect methodology.
Under the current proposals, duties are tiered:
Standard Tier
– Applies to premises where 200–799 people may be present
– The main requirement is to notify the SIA that the premises is in scope
– Obligations focus on people and processes, including:
– Basic public protection procedures (e.g.. Evacuation, lockdown, communication)
– Staff awareness and preparedness
Enhanced Tier
– Applies to premises and qualifying events where 800+ people may be present.
– Enhanced tier organisations must meet all standard tier duties plus:
– Implement appropriate and proportionate public protection measures
– Document risk assessments and procedures
– Provide relevant information to the SIA
– Appoint a senior individual responsible for compliance
Some locations – such as certain transport hubs already covered by sector -specific legislation – may fall outside scope. Schools (below university level) and places of worship are also treated differently under current proposals.
Myth 3: “If my event isn’t in scope, I don’t need to do anything.”
Fact: Scope is not the same as risk.
Even where a venue or event may not be legally in scope, organisers still hold a duty of care. Proportionate preparedness remains best practice.
Understanding crowd movement, vehicle access and site vulnerabilities helps organisers make informed, sensible decisions. This is not about excessive security – its about being prepared in a way that matches the real- world risk profile of your event
Myth 4: “Martyn’s Law means every event must install barriers.”
Fact: Martyn’s Law is not a barrier mandate.
Most Standard Tier requirements relate to procedures, training and awareness – not physical measures.
National guidance is clear that Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) is only relevant where there is a realistic vehicle-borne threat, and many events will not require and physical intervention at all.
Where physical measures are appropriate, they should be:
– Proportionate
– Integrated with operational planning and crowd management
Nothing excessive or intrusive – just what’s appropriate.
Myth 5: “Counter Terrorism security is expensive.”
Fact: Preparedness does not always mean spending.
Many of the most effective improvements cost little or nothing, including:
– Clear staff briefings and awareness
– Reviewing communication and incident response plans
– Simple pre-opening checks
– Sensible management of publicly available site information
Where physical mitigation is appropriate, there is a wide range of temporary, semi-permanent and permanent solutions, allowing organisers to match measures to both risk and budget. Cost should never become a barrier to hosting a safe, well-managed event.
So, what should you do now?
While Martyn’s Law is not yet in force, there are sensible steps organisers can take now:
– Identify who your Responsible Person is likely to be
– Stay informed through ProtectUK, Home Office and NPSA updates
– Begin embedding proportionate procedures around communication, staff awareness and basic incident response
– If your site may fall into Standard or Enhanced Tier, start planning early rather than reacting later
At Crowdguard, we support organisers through a Plan – Provide – Protect approach: understanding risk, selecting proportionate measures, and delivering them professionally.
If you need clear, practical, risk-led advice, get in touch with our specialist team at info@crowdguard.co.uk .
Images: Crowdguard
