Information for rowing clubs and competitions about the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill

This upcoming legislation, known as ‘Martyn’s Law’,applies to premises with a capacity of 200 or more, is designed to strengthen the security of public events and venues’

Under Martyn’s Law, staff at all UK premises with a capacity of more than 200 people would undergo evacuation training, and sites with more than 800 people would need extra measures such as CCTV or security staff.

A ‘premises’ is defined in the Bill as being a building (or part of a building or a group of buildings); or a building and other land), which is wholly or mainly used for one or more qualifying activity.

On this basis it seems that the law would not apply to outdoor rowing competitions, but could apply to indoor rowing competitions or activities at larger clubs.

The legislation is expected to receive Royal Assent in April, after which there will be a period of time prior to the implementation of the legislation that is expected to be at least 24 months. This will allow for the set-up of the regulator and to ensure sufficient time for those responsible for premises and events in scope to understand their new obligations, and to plan and prepare.

The Home Office’s Martyn’s Law Factsheet provides further details.

Martyn’s Law is named after Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack.