Summary
Martyn’s Law—formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025—is designed to improve public safety by ensuring venues are better prepared to respond to potential terrorist incidents.
Named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, the law reflects the tireless campaigning of his mother, Figen Murray, for stronger venue security.
The legislation introduces clear duties for qualifying venues to assess risks, prepare emergency plans, and take proportionate steps to protect visitors. One of the key factors in determining these duties is occupancy capacity, making accurate data an important part of compliance.
What Martyn’s Law Requires
Martyn’s Law applies to premises and events across the UK with a capacity of 200 people or more, introducing two main tiers of requirements:
Standard Tier (200–799 capacity)
- Register with the Security Industry Authority (SIA)
- Develop and maintain a plan for responding to a terrorist incident
- Ensure staff are trained and aware of security procedures
Enhanced Tier (800+ capacity)
- Conduct regular risk assessments
- Put in place measures to reduce vulnerabilities (e.g., access control, staff deployment, specialist equipment)
- Nominate a Senior Responsible Individual to oversee compliance
Note: The law requires that measures taken are “reasonably practicable,” recognising that venues differ in size, purpose, and available resources.
Why Occupancy Data Matters
Occupancy figures are not just an operational planning tool—they are central to understanding a venue’s legal obligations under Martyn’s Law.
Accurate data can help in several ways:
Determining Tier Requirements
Evidence-based occupancy data confirms whether a venue falls under the standard or enhanced tier, avoiding uncertainty or misclassification.
Supporting Emergency Planning
Knowing how many people are present helps plan for safe evacuation, effective communication, and appropriate staffing levels.
Providing an Audit Trail
Accurate records can demonstrate compliance to authorities and show that a venue is meeting its responsibilities in good faith.
Improving Preparedness
Identifying patterns in visitor numbers helps anticipate when additional security or trained staff may be needed.
A Step Towards Safer Public Spaces
Martyn’s Law is a significant and positive step in the UK’s approach to public safety. By linking responsibilities to occupancy capacity, it ensures that measures are proportionate and relevant to the scale of each venue.
Reliable occupancy data supports this approach—helping venues make informed decisions, prepare effectively, and respond swiftly if required.
Honouring Martyn’s Legacy
Martyn’s Law is the result of years of determined campaigning to ensure that lessons are learned from past tragedies. It calls on venues not only to meet legal duties but to recognise their role in safeguarding the public.
Accurate occupancy data is one of many practical ways to support that goal. By knowing how many people are present at any given time, venues can help create safer public spaces, protect lives, and honour the memory of those who have been lost.
