Police in Southport have issued a Section 60 order ahead of the much-anticipated “Unite the Kingdom” march, set to take place in the town centre this weekend. The order, which grants officers enhanced stop-and-search powers, will remain in place for 24 hours as authorities aim to prevent potential violence between rival groups.
The march, organised by a nationalist collective, has attracted significant attention from counter-demonstrators who plan to rally against what they describe as “divisive and inflammatory rhetoric.” Police have confirmed that additional units have been drafted in from across Merseyside to maintain order and ensure the safety of both participants and the public.
Chief Superintendent Claire Richards, who is overseeing the policing operation, stated that the Section 60 measure was “not taken lightly” but was necessary due to “intelligence suggesting the potential for confrontation between opposing groups.”
“Our priority is the safety of everyone in Southport. We fully respect the right to peaceful protest, but we will not tolerate disorder or intimidation,” she said.
The order covers the entire Southport town centre, including key gathering points such as Lord Street, Chapel Street, and the Marine Lake promenade. Officers in high-visibility uniforms were already seen patrolling early this morning, conducting bag checks and advising shopkeepers to remain vigilant.
Local businesses have expressed mixed feelings about the event. While some worry about disruptions and reduced footfall, others view it as an opportunity to demonstrate unity. Café owner Janine Foster said, “We’ve been told to expect road closures and delays, but hopefully people will still come out peacefully.”
The march comes amid growing tensions over national identity and immigration policy, themes that have dominated political discourse in recent months. With both nationalist and anti-racism groups confirming their attendance, community leaders have called for calm and urged demonstrators to express themselves respectfully.
As of Saturday evening, police confirmed no arrests but advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel through the town centre during the demonstration. Authorities expect the Section 60 order to be lifted by early Sunday morning if no further incidents occur.
