Police and Councils approve protest sites for G7 Summit

In order to facilitate peaceful and lawful protest at the G7 Summit, police and local councils have been working together to identify dedicated sites across the force area for the G7 Summit, where people can go to express their views.

Following discussions, four sites have been identified:

*Plymouth* – The Hoe

*Exeter* – Flowerpots Playing Fields

*Falmouth* – Church Street Car Park

*Truro* – Lemon Quay

Further specific details about each location will be released in due course.

Space is limited in the St Ives area and therefore we would encourage anyone who wishes to gather to express their views on the G7 event, to visit either the Falmouth or Truro sites.

We are also looking at areas where protest on the water can be facilitated without presenting a safety or security risk.

Whilst we support the right to peaceful and lawful protests, we cannot tolerate activity that places protestors, the public, officers or the event at physical risk. We must also ensure that any demonstrations take place in line with the current COVID legislation at that time.

The public can be assured that any public order or criminal offences will be dealt with robustly and adequately; call handling and custody provision is also a key part of our planning for the G7 Summit to ensure we continue to meet the needs of local communities.

Superintendent Jo Hall of Devon & Cornwall Police said: “It’s important that people can exercise their right to protest legally and peacefully. This should not impact residents and businesses and so we’ve been working with local councils to agree appropriate protest sites.

“We are aware that some people are making enquiries to police and local authorities about where they could camp in order to maintain a presence close the G7 Summit. Whilst the decisions are not primarily a police matter, we are working closely with partners to ensure we include this in our plans.

“Anyone who wishes to express their views is encouraged to use one of the dedicated sites. As ever, our thinking will be based upon making this a peaceful and safe event for all concerned.”

Sophie Hosking, Cornwall Council’s strategic director for neighbourhoods, said: “We recognise people’s right to protest, and will work with our colleagues to ensure this can take place in a safe and controlled manner, allowing people to have their voices heard while minimising the impact on local residents and businesses.

“We’d urge anyone organising a protest to contact us at G7protest@cornwall.gov.uk so we can provide advice and guidance on how to do so safely and respectfully, and with the minimum impact on those living and working in the area.”

Anyone organising a public march or procession is required by law to inform police in writing six days before the protest. An indication of numbers involved, your intention and a point-of-contact should be sent to: G7Engagement@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

There is a dedicated protest page on the Devon and Cornwall Police G7 website where you can find all the latest information and updates: www.dc.police.uk/G7

--- Note to readers: This message has been disseminated by Devon and Cornwall Police - please visit their official website for further information.