Policing plans in place ahead of Taunton protest

Policing plans are in place ahead of a planned protest in Taunton on Saturday (29 August).

The protest and march is due to take place in the town centre, starting at 12pm.

There will be large police presence in the town during the day with officers there to enable peaceful protest to take place and to ensure the safety of those in attendance and the wider public.

They will not tolerate any criminality and will be following well-rehearsed plans.

As part of the police operation, a dispersal zone under section 34 of the Antisocial Behaviour and Policing Act 2014 will be in place from 8am until 8pm. This will cover the area in the map below.

Dispersal zones are regularly used by police across the country for a wide range of reasons, including to prevent disorder taking place during protests.

They give officers power to move on people who cause – or are likely to cause – harassment, alarm, or distress to others.

PCSO Supervisor Sam Bushen, of the Taunton neighbourhood policing team, said: “We know protests of this size are rare in Taunton, but Avon and Somerset Police has significant experience in enabling events of this nature to take place safely.

“Officers will be following plans which are drawn up to ensure the safety of everyone, while minimising disruption to the wider community.

“Peaceful protest is a fundamental part of our society, but action will be taken wherever criminality is identified.

“Our Taunton neighbourhood officers will be in the town centre throughout the day and will be happy to speak to anyone who has any concerns.”