Martyn’s Law.

The UK is entering a new chapter in public safety with the introduction of Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. Developed in response to evolving security threats, the legislation will place a legal duty on organisations to improve preparedness and protection across public-facing spaces.

For those involved in the design, operation and management of buildings, the message is clear: security must now be considered from the outset, not as an afterthought.

Martyn’s Law received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025, marking a major step forward in strengthening the UK’s approach to protective security.

The Act was introduced in memory of the victims of the Manchester Arena attack and following the determined campaign by Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett. It aims to ensure that public premises and events are better prepared to respond to terrorist incidents. 

At its core, the legislation requires those responsible for premises and events to:

• Consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack
• Implement proportionate security procedures
• Take steps to reduce vulnerabilities, particularly in higher-capacity locations  

Importantly, the Act does not prescribe specific solutions. Instead, it requires organisations to take a risk-based, proportionate approach to security.

Martyn’s Law is currently in its implementation phase.

• April 2025: Royal Assent granted
• April 2026: Statutory guidance published to support organisations
• Spring 2027: Expected enforcement date 

The Government has allowed a minimum 24-month transition period to enable organisations to understand their responsibilities and prepare accordingly. 

While compliance is not yet mandatory, organisations are strongly encouraged to begin planning now.

Martyn’s Law applies to a wide range of public premises and events, including:

• Retail environments
• Hospitality venues
• Commercial offices
• Transport hubs
• Entertainment and leisure venues

To fall within scope, premises must:

• Be publicly accessible
• Be used for specified purposes (such as shops, restaurants or venues)
• Be expected to host 200 or more people at any one time

The legislation introduces a tiered system:

Standard Tier (200–799 people)

• Notify the Security Industry Authority (SIA)
• Put in place public protection procedures, such as:
  • Evacuation
  • Lockdown
  • Communication strategies

Enhanced Tier (800+ people)

• Additional duty to implement physical and operational measures to reduce vulnerability
• Document and evidence security plans
• Assign senior responsibility for compliance

This tiered approach ensures that requirements are proportionate to risk and occupancy.

Martyn’s Law represents a shift towards proactive, integrated security planning.

Organisations will need to demonstrate that they have:

• Assessed how an attack could occur
• Planned how people would be protected
• Implemented measures to reduce risk and harm

Critically, this includes how people access and move through a building, placing greater importance on entrance design and access control strategies.

With enforcement expected from 2027 onwards, projects currently in design or construction must be planned with future requirements in mind.

Early integration of entrance solutions can help:

• Demonstrate proactive risk management
• Support long-term compliance with Martyn’s Law

The introduction of statutory guidance and the clear direction of travel signal a fundamental shift in expectations.

Organisations should now be:

• Reviewing their current security posture
• Assessing entry points and vulnerabilities
• Developing public protection procedures
• Engaging with experienced security partners early

Martyn’s Law aims to create greater consistency in how security is considered across the UK, addressing gaps where preparedness has historically varied between organisations.

At Boon Edam UK, we are committed to supporting this objective by helping clients design safe, secure and future-ready entrances that align with both the spirit and practical requirements of the legislation.

To learn more about preparing your building for Martyn’s Law, contact Boon Edam UK today to discuss how we can be part of your upcoming project or retrofit current projects.

Martyn's Law highlights the importance of being prepared for potential security threats. Boon Edam UK helps organisations enhance building security through intelligent entrance solutions, including security revolving doors, speed gates and access control integration, supporting safer and more resilient environments.

Speak to an Entry Expert about how we can help you align with Martyn's Law.

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