Police Set Conditions Ahead of Southampton Protests to “Ensure Public Safety”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has confirmed that plans are in place ahead of protests expected in Southampton this Sunday, aimed at minimising disruption to the local community and ensuring public safety.

Anti-immigration and counter protests are scheduled to take place from lunchtime on Sunday, 26 October, starting on Highfield Lane and concluding at Hoglands Park. Officers say they have been working closely with organisers and local partners to coordinate the events safely.

Following discussions with those involved, police have decided to use powers under Section 12 of the Public Order Act 1986 to impose conditions on the route and conduct of the procession. The legislation allows officers to set specific conditions to prevent serious public disorder, damage, or disruption.

Under these conditions, protesters must follow a particular route through the city, as detailed on a map shared with organisers. Participants are required to stay on this route and not stop during the procession. Police will be present along the route to ensure compliance.

In a statement, Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo said:

“Policing has a long history of facilitating peaceful protest and upholding the legal right to do so.

“We have been working closely with organisers, local partners and the community to ensure we balance the rights of those peacefully protesting and the rights of others to go about their lives without being subject to serious disruption.

“Our priority, as always, is keeping the public safe and preventing crime and disorder. This is why we’ve made use of the legislation available to us on Sunday.”

ACC Bartolomeo emphasised that the decision to impose such conditions was not made lightly.

“Matters like this are complex and can have a huge impact on our local community, and I can assure you this type of action is never a step which is taken lightly, and it will only be used in a proportionate way,” he said.

“In instances like this, we will do all we can to make sure we’ve taken appropriate action to ensure the safety of those involved and the public.

“We have resources in place to police these protests, protect our communities, and we will continue to work with organisers and local partners ahead of Sunday.

“If you have any concerns on the day, please speak with officers who will be highly visible in the area.”

Police have confirmed that failing to comply with the imposed conditions is an offence and may result in arrest. Officers will also be engaging with individuals outside the designated route to provide advice on where they should go.

The force reiterated that its main focus remains public safety and reducing disruption for Southampton residents.