Where the law will bite in Gloucester
Venues likely to be in scope include rugby stadium, cathedral, outlet shopping, waterfront events, museums. Areas with a high concentration of qualifying premises include:
- Gloucester Quays
- Gloucester Docks
Any premises in Gloucester where 200 or more people can reasonably be present at once needs to prepare, from a single pub to a stadium. Use the free tier checker to see where you stand.
What venues in Gloucester need to do
Standard tier (200 to 799 people): have procedures for evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication, make sure staff know what to do, and notify the SIA. There is no legal requirement for building works. See the four procedures explained.
Enhanced tier (800 or more): all of the above, plus documented public protection measures provided to the SIA and, for organisations, a designated senior individual. See enhanced tier duties.
Local contacts and support
- Gloucester City Council handles your premises licence. Keep your licence conditions, fire risk assessment and Martyn’s Law procedures consistent.
- Gloucestershire Constabulary provides protective security advice through Counter Terrorism Security Advisers.
- ProtectUK offers free official training, including ACT awareness e-learning. See our guide to free training and resources.
Guides for Gloucester’s main venue types
- Martyn’s Law for sports venues
- Martyn’s Law for shops and retail stores
- Martyn’s Law for conference and events venues
- Martyn’s Law for museums and visitor attractions
Frequently asked questions
Does Martyn's Law apply to venues in Gloucester?
Yes, if your premises qualifies. The law covers premises in Gloucester where 200 or more people can reasonably be expected to be present at the same time, and certain events of 800 or more. Premises with 800 or more fall into the enhanced tier, except places of worship, early years settings, schools and further education, which stay in the standard tier.
Who enforces Martyn's Law in Gloucester?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates Martyn's Law across the UK, including Gloucester. Gloucester City Council is not the regulator for these duties, although your licensing and fire safety obligations still apply.
When do the duties start in Gloucester?
The duties are expected to come into force in spring 2027, at the same time across the UK. Existing premises will then have three months to notify the SIA.
Where can venues in Gloucester get local security advice?
Gloucestershire Constabulary can provide counter terrorism protective security advice through its Counter Terrorism Security Advisers, and free training is available through ProtectUK. Report suspicious activity to the police on 999 in an emergency, or through gov.uk/ACT.