Gloucester residents can expect to see a heightened police presence in Barnwood on Saturday morning, 22 August, ahead of a planned protest and counter-protest.
Gloucestershire Police have confirmed that officers will be deployed to ensure the safety of all participants and the wider public, while supporting the right to free speech.
Motorists travelling through the area should anticipate possible delays, particularly along Corinium Avenue and Saw Mills End, as journeys may take longer during the events.
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Assistant Chief Constable Arman Mathieson stated: “We have been engaging with representatives from both protest groups and have developed appropriate plans to ensure the event proceeds safely, lawfully, and without incident.
“We aim to minimise any traffic disruption around Barnwood so residents, workers, and visitors can continue their daily activities with as little inconvenience as possible.
“Our role is to maintain safety for everyone involved while carefully balancing individual rights fairly and without bias.
“We fully support the right to express views and opinions, and we will facilitate lawful protest. However, we will not hesitate to act if unlawful behaviour threatens the event’s safety or disrupts its proceedings.
“To reassure the community, we are increasing our police presence in Barnwood tomorrow, and I encourage anyone with concerns to speak with our officers on site.”
Members of the public who have information regarding planned protests or potential disorder are urged to contact Gloucestershire Police by reporting online at https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/ro/report/ or by calling 101.