Protests are planned for Carlisle city centre this weekend.
Cumbria police said its officers have been planning an operation ahead of the demos, due to take place today, Saturday September 13.
Cumbria Against Racism and Carlisle Action Group/Enough is Enough are planning to protest and Cumbria Constabulary has been authorised to use legal powers to help minimise disruption in the city.
It has been granted the power to use conditions under the Public Order Act, which are applicable to public assemblies – which means two or more people in a public place.
The 1986 act allows a senior police officer to impose the conditions to prevent serious public disorder, damage to property, disruption to the community, or intimidation. Conditions can restrict the assembly’s location, duration, and number of participants.
Tomorrow, both groups must not assemble before noon and must conclude/disperse no later than 3pm.
Anyone gathering ahead of the protests must assemble and remain in relevant shaded areas on the map below:
Carlisle Action Group/Enough is Enough and affiliated groups must assemble and remain (unless dispersing) in the area marked by blue on the attached map.
Cumbria Against Racism and affiliated groups must assemble and remain (unless dispersing) in the area marked by orange on the attached map.
Tomorrow also sees Carlisle United play at home, which will increasing footfall in the city centre.
Cumbria police said the conditions had been granted to ensure communities can go about their day safely, while seeking to minimise disruption and prevent crime and disorder.
Similar to previous protests, police officers will also be in the area to provide reassurance and support to the local community, the force added.
Superintendent Paddy O’Hara said: “Saturday is the busiest shopping day of the week and we expect the city to be busy.
“Due to ongoing regeneration work there is currently limited capacity in the city centre.
“We ask individuals involved in the protests to act responsibly, consider the potential impact on the business community and those who need access to essential goods and services.
“Conditions have been placed on both planned assemblies to ensure the safety of those involved, balance the right to protest and ensure our communities can go about their day safely whilst seeking to minimise disruption and prevent crime and disorder.
“It is an offence to fail to comply with a condition issued under Section 14 of the Public Order Act 1986.
“Police continue to positively work with protest organisers who have committed to providing marshals to assist with the management with those who are seeking to gather and express their views.”
