Police ramp up presence in Plymouth amid threat of disruptive demonstrations

Devon & Cornwall Police have announced an increased presence in Plymouth city centre tonight due to anticipated demonstrations. 

On Monday, 5 August, officers will be on heightened alert following information that two groups plan to hold protests in the city this evening.

The force has outlined its plans in advance of the demonstrations, acknowledging recent concerns about disorderly protests across the country. 

Plymouth City Council has also announced that they are "disappointed" to hear of the planned demonstration in Plymouth tonight. 

The council has also made the decision to close Regent Street Car Park.

They said: "If you are parked there already, you will be able to remove your car and Council officers are on hand to help."

City Bus and Stagecoach have also made the decision to reroute services away from Royal Parade from 3.30pm.

The council has advised to look at their websites for further information.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew said: “As a result of the information we have received, we will be increasing our presence in the city centre. I have a dedicated team planning the policing for this, and other events as they occur during the week.”

He added: “This morning, I chaired a meeting with partners to ensure we all work together supporting our communities at the busiest time of the year for all our services. Residents, visitors, and local businesses can expect to see an increased policing presence in the area as a result of this.”

The police are liaising with protest organisers to ensure compliance with the current laws and to protect the community. 

“We understand the right to protest, but some protests have resulted in disorder and such conduct will not be tolerated. We will take positive action against individuals in breach of the law.

“We are fully prepared to respond to incidents of disorder, and we have the resources in place to deal with these incidents to ensure that there is minimal disruption to the local community,” he said.

The police are fully prepared to respond to any incidents of disorder and have the resources in place to manage these situations to minimise disruption to the local community.

One of the protests planned for tonight was publicly reshared on the social media platform X by Tommy Robinson. 

The Prime Minister has indicated that a “standing army” of specialist officers will be deployed to address the unrest that has occurred across the UK since a stabbing attack last week that resulted in the deaths of three children.

Plymouth MP Fred Thomas has also issued a statement which included: “Violence has no place in Plymouth. I will always support the right to peaceful protest, but anyone participating in violence will face the full force of the law. If you are thinking of coming here to cause division and disorder, you are not welcome here.”