Merseyside Police has initiated a large-scale security operation in Liverpool ahead of the Labour Party Conference, which is expected to draw more than 20,000 attendees. The event is scheduled to take place at the ACC Liverpool from Sunday, September 28, to Wednesday, October 1, prompting a significant and visible police presence throughout the city center and waterfront areas.
The comprehensive security plan has been in development for several months, involving close collaboration between law enforcement and various city partners to ensure the safety of delegates, residents, and visitors during the high-profile political gathering.
Key Takeaways
- A major security operation is underway for the Labour Party Conference at ACC Liverpool.
- Over 20,000 delegates and visitors are expected to attend the four-day event.
- Merseyside Police is leading a multi-agency effort involving Liverpool City Council and transport partners.
- Specialist tactics, including Project Servator, armed officers, and a Marine Unit, will be deployed.
- The public is advised to expect an increased police presence and to report any concerns.
A Multi-Agency Approach to Public Safety
The security framework for the conference is the result of extensive planning between numerous organizations. Merseyside Police has coordinated with ACC Liverpool's internal security teams, Liverpool City Council, and partners across the transport, hospitality, and government sectors. This collaborative effort aims to create a secure environment while minimizing disruption to the city's daily life.
Chief Inspector Iain Wyke, who leads protective security for Merseyside Police, highlighted the depth of the preparations. He emphasized the force's experience in managing large-scale events as a key factor in the operation's design.
"Drawing on our experience in managing large-scale events, we have planned thoroughly for the conference, working closely alongside event organisers and security providers at ACC Liverpool; Liverpool City Council; and other partners in the transport, hospitality and government sectors," said Chief Inspector Wyke.
He further explained that the operation has been active for months, ensuring that all aspects of the event are covered. The primary goal is to allow attendees and the public to enjoy the city safely while maintaining normal policing services across the wider Merseyside region.
Ensuring City-Wide Security
While the focus is on the conference venue, the security plan extends across Liverpool. The operation considers the flow of thousands of visitors through transport hubs, hotels, and restaurants, requiring a coordinated response to ensure safety throughout the city's key areas.
Visible Policing and Specialist Units Deployed
Residents and visitors in Liverpool will notice a significantly increased police presence, particularly around the conference venue on the waterfront. This is a deliberate measure designed to provide reassurance and deter potential criminal activity. The operation will utilize a range of specialist police resources to ensure a robust security bubble around the event.
Among the tactics being used is Project Servator, a nationally recognized policing strategy. This involves deploying specially trained officers, who can be in uniform or plain clothes, to identify and disrupt hostile reconnaissance and other criminal intentions. These officers are trained to spot tell-tale signs that individuals may be planning or preparing to commit a crime.
Project Servator Explained
Project Servator is an unpredictable and highly visible policing tactic. It relies on trained officers to identify suspicious behaviour, supported by other resources like police dogs, armed police, and CCTV. A key element is engaging with the public and local businesses to encourage them to be extra eyes and ears for the police.
Specialist Officer Patrols
In addition to Project Servator teams, the public may also see other specialist units. Armed officers will be conducting foot patrols in and around the conference zone. This is a standard procedure for major events and is not in response to any specific threat.
The Merseyside Police Marine Unit will also be active on the River Mersey and in the surrounding dock areas. Their presence ensures security from the waterfront, a critical aspect of protecting the ACC Liverpool venue.
Chief Inspector Wyke reassured the public about the increased police activity. "If you do notice this enhanced police and security presence or a Project Servator deployment, there's nothing to worry about," he stated. "Feel free to talk to officers. They will be happy to explain what they are doing and how you can help keep people safe."
Venue and City Partners Emphasize Safety
The ACC Liverpool Group, which operates the conference venue, has been a central partner in the security planning. The venue has extensive experience hosting major national and international events and maintains its own robust security protocols.
Faye Dyer, CEO of the ACC Liverpool Group, expressed pride in hosting the conference again and reiterated that safety is the foremost concern.
"We are proud to be hosting the Labour Party Conference once again and to welcome thousands of delegates and visitors to our venue and to the city. Ensuring the safety and security of everyone attending is always our top priority, and we have worked in close partnership with Merseyside Police and our city partners over many months to deliver a safe and successful event," Dyer said.
This partnership ensures that security measures are seamlessly integrated, from the perimeter of the venue to the conference halls themselves.
Public Vigilance Encouraged
While law enforcement and security partners have a comprehensive plan in place, they are also calling on the public to play a role in maintaining safety. Police are encouraging everyone in the city to remain vigilant and report anything that seems out of place or unusual.
This 'see something, say something' approach is a cornerstone of modern event security. Officials stress that no concern is too small to report, as even minor details can be important pieces of a larger picture.
Merseyside Police has provided several ways for the public to report concerns:
- Speak directly to any police officer or member of event staff.
- Call the non-emergency police number, 101.
- Report information online via the government's counter-terrorism website at gov.uk/ACT.
- In an emergency, always dial 999.
By working together, police, partners, and the public aim to ensure the Labour Party Conference is a safe and secure event for everyone involved.