Police request 'anti terror' changes - as a precuation for Plymouth Hoe
The force say the proposed changes not based on a specific threat
Police are calling for changes around Plymouth’s Hoe area in case of safety concerns.
They want more powers to close off roads and different areas if needed - after incidents in public areas across places like Germany.
A consultation has now started, with the force saying the changes - under anti terror legislation - are a precaution and not in response to a specific threat.
A spokesperson for Plymouth City Council said the proposed Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO) for the Plymouth Hoe area 'is designed to enhance public safety during large events and in response to potential threats'.
They added: "Following a request from the local Police, an ATTRO allows the police and designated partners to close off or restrict access to certain areas and roads within the ATTRO footprint when necessary, ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors.
"Most of the time, the ATTRO will remain dormant, only being activated when needed. It covers a large area, including Plymouth Hoe, the Barbican, and surrounding locations, to ensure comprehensive coverage for various events. It will not affect daily activities unless activated, and it will replace most of the existing Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders (TTROs) for events. "
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, added: “While there’s no specific threat to Plymouth at this moment, crowded places can be targets for terrorism. We have all seen the awful events that have happened in other around the world, from the tragic attack on London Bridge in 2017, and more recently the Magdeburg car attack in Germany.
“Having an ATTRO in place means we’re prepared to act swiftly to protect everyone. It’s about being proactive and ensuring we have the right tools to safeguard our community.”
Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “The ATTRO will help us manage traffic and pedestrian access effectively during large events, ensuring that emergency services can operate without hindrance. This is a crucial step in maintaining public safety and smooth operations in our city.
"It is a permanent measure that will lay dormant until needed for security purposes associated with large gatherings and planned events, or if there is an immediate need to protect the public from harm such as a terrorist attack."
• The ATTRO is not the pedestrianisation of an area.
• The ATTRO will not see the installation of any permanent barriers or permanent vehicle mitigation measures within the highlighted map area.
• The ATTRO will not change the overall base layout of roads or public pathways, nor will it result in any roadworks.
• The ATTRO will not affect day-to-day business operations unless activated.