How to protect the public realm without shutting it down

A practical guide to protective security for council events and public spaces, as Martyn's Law approaches.

Public spaces are one of local government's biggest strengths, but the openness that makes them valuable also creates vulnerabilities. The Manchester Arena Inquiry, ongoing terrorism concerns and the incoming Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – commonly known as Martyn's Law – all point to the same conclusion: councils need a more systematic approach to protecting the people who use their streets, markets and civic spaces.

This report cuts through the confusion around vehicle security and Martyn's Law. It sets out what the legislation actually requires, where hostile vehicle mitigation fits into a proportionate response, and how councils and event organisers have approached it in practice – from a permanent market gate to a 20,000-runner half marathon through central London.

What’s in the report
🔸What Martyn's Law actually requires
🔸A Q&A on getting temporary vehicle security right
🔸Three case studies: securing York Minster's New Year's Eve crowds, a rapid-turnaround HVM gate for Bilston Market, and protecting three London landmarks during a 20,000-runner half marathon
🔸How to design out vehicle threats without designing out community