Council leader urges calm ahead of planned protests in Southampton

Southampton City Council Leader Councillor Alex Winning has urged calm and respect ahead of a series of planned protests due to take place in the city this weekend.

The council confirmed it is working closely with Hampshire Constabulary to monitor events and ensure measures are in place to protect public safety and minimise disruption to residents and businesses.

Councillor Winning said the city remains committed to supporting all of its communities and upholding the right to peaceful protest.

He said:

“We are aware of several planned protests taking place this weekend in the city.

Southampton is a diverse and welcoming city. We stand firmly in support of all our communities and are committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

While we respect the legal right to peaceful protest, we urge all participants to act with consideration, calm, and respect for others. We ask everyone to be mindful of the potential impact on residents, businesses, and community life.

We are working closely with Hampshire Constabulary to monitor the situation and ensure appropriate measures are in place to protect public safety and minimise disruption. As a precaution, there will be an increased police presence in the city over the weekend.

If you have any concerns, please contact the police via 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-urgent matters.”

Police have confirmed there will be an increased presence across key areas of the city centre as a precautionary measure.

The council said it will continue to provide updates as necessary over the weekend.