What happened
On 10 September 2026 the Home Office added guidance on the principal use of premises to its Martyn's Law collection on GOV.UK. It applies where a single premises is used for two or more of the uses listed in Schedule 1 to the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, for example a building that is both a place of worship and a community venue.
The guidance supports regulations on principal use and explains how to work out which use is the principal one. That matters because the principal use helps establish which statutory use applies; the responsible person is then whoever has control of the premises in connection with that use, and they carry the legal duties.
Most single-use venues are not affected. Mixed-use buildings, multi-occupancy sites and venues that change use through the week should read it carefully.
What to do now
- If your premises has more than one use, read the principal use guidance on GOV.UK.
- Confirm in writing who the responsible person is, especially where a landlord, tenant or operator share control.
- Keep a note of your reasoning with your procedures.
Read next
Official sources
Martyn's Law Risk Assessment is independent and not affiliated with the Home Office or the Security Industry Authority. This update is general information, not legal advice.