The UK Government’s Martyn’s Law (Terrorism [Protection of Premises] Bill) is to transform how businesses and organisations manage safety and security in public spaces. This legislation will require all qualifying venues to adopt basic – yet potentially life-saving – counter-terrorism measures.

But who does Martyn’s Law affect? And what steps will those responsible for public premises need to take?

Who Does Martyn’s Law Affect?

It applies to organisations responsible for public venues, spaces, and large events. If your business operates a place where people gather, it is likely that the law will apply to you.

Sectors impacted include:

• Entertainment venues (theatres, concert halls, arenas)

• Retail and shopping centres

• Hospitality venues (hotels, bars, nightclubs)

• Sports stadiums and arenas

• Places of worship

• Educational institutions (schools, colleges, universities)

• Transport hubs (train stations, airports)

• Visitor attractions and public buildings

• Large events and festivals

When Does It Come Into Effect?

The Act was officially approved in April 2025, but enforcement won’t start straight away. A two-year preparation period has been set by the Government to allow businesses time to get ready.

This means the regulations will be fully enforced from April 2027, but planning should begin as soon as possible. Tasks such as staff training, doing risk assessments, and setting up emergency response plans can take a lot of time, especially for larger sites.

For now, businesses are being encouraged to start preparing early to avoid being caught out when the law comes into force.

Two-Tier Security Responsibilities

Martyn’s Law introduces two security tiers based on the size of the venue:

Standard Tier (100+ capacity)

• Basic staff training on identifying threats.

• Simple evacuation or lockdown procedures.

• Access to government counter-terror advice.

Enhanced Tier (800+ capacity)

• Formal terrorism risk assessments.

• Detailed emergency response planning.

• Implementation of physical security measures (such as CCTV, barriers, controlled access).

• Regular staff training and documentation.

How ADC Entrances Can Help

At ADC Entrances, we understand that doors and entrances are critical security points for any building. As specialists in automatic doors, access control, and entrance systems, we can help venues comply with Martyn’s Law by improving how their entrances contribute to overall site safety.

Our expertise can support you in areas such as:

• Secure Access Control: Automatic doors fitted with advanced access systems to control public entry and restrict unauthorised access where needed.

• Lockdown Functionality: We can integrate emergency lockdown capabilities into entrance systems, allowing for quick and safe sealing of areas during incidents.

• Safety-Focused Maintenance: Ensure your doors work reliably in emergencies with our regular servicing and safety checks, helping you meet preparedness standards.

• Flow Management: Automatic doors that manage people flow efficiently, reducing overcrowding and keeping evacuation routes clear.

• Custom Security Solutions: We assess your unique site needs and can recommend bespoke security-focused upgrades to your entrance systems.

Get Your Site Ready with ADC Entrances

At ADC Entrances, we’re already helping businesses prepare. From safer, smarter entrances to tailored security advice, our team is ready to support you.

Talk to us today about:

• Automatic door safety checks

• Secure access control solutions

• Emergency lockdown capabilities

• Site-specific entrance security upgrades

Make your entrances part of your safety plan – with ADC Entrances.

Contact Us to discuss how we can help protect your people and premises.