Policing operation in place ahead of TUC demonstration

Plans are in place to keep Manchester safe for a planned demonstration organised by the Trade Union Congress (TUC), during the Conservative Party Annual Conference.

Greater Manchester Police will carry out an operation to ensure that a march and standing protest planned for Sunday (2 October) passes off peacefully and that disruption to the city is kept to a minimum.

Working closely with the event organisers, officers now anticipate anywhere between 20,000 and 30,000 demonstrators.

The march will start from Liverpool Road at 1.30pm, but demonstrators will gather there from 11.00am. Two 'feeder marches', organised by separate groups, will leave Oxford Road and Fire Station Square in Salford respectively, and will join the main congregation for the march.

The demonstration will go along Deansgate, John Dalton Street, Princess Street, Portland Street, Oxford Street, Hall Street, Bale Street and then arrive for a rally at No 1 First St for a static protest, which is expected to start from 3.00pm.

The TUC has organised a further rally at the Square behind Whitworth Street West, starting from 5.00pm.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: "This event poses a number of security challenges to the city of Manchester, and we have had to put in place a significant policing operation to help meet these challenges.

"Organisers of the demonstration have been very open and co-operative with us and it is clear that their intention is to demonstrate peacefully, as is their democratic right.

"However, anyone wishing to usurp or upstage this event with any violent disorder will be swiftly and robustly dealt with by the police.

"At certain times there will be simultaneous marches taking place in different parts of the city, while at the same time a secured "island site" will be in place for conference delegates, so we clearly do need a significant number of officers on duty.

"Manchester is privileged to host the conference and the event is good for the city. It helps Manchester's growing reputation as a world leader in conference hosting.

"However, the safety and security of those visiting, living and working in the city is a priority for GMP.

"This is why have had to request a number of road closures and diversions. We do advise all users of the city to expect delays, but we will be working hard to try and minimise disruptions and lift road closures as soon as possible.

"We have worked closely with partner agencies, including those who represent local businesses, and we fully understand their desire to ensure that the city can keep moving as far as possible.

"We simply will not tolerate opportunistic criminality or disorder.

"Last month's disorder showed that in partnership with other authorities, Greater Manchester Police is well-equipped to be able to restore order and help prosecute offenders."