Speaker
Description
Both academically and operationally there is distinct focus on ensuring the physical safety of places, enshrined in law by the recent passed of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. However, how safe a location feels may be at odds with how protected from hazards it objectively is, with some studies finding that the more measures were put in the less safe individuals felt (Gastic, 2011).
Music events employ a variety of protective security measures to deter and detect unwanted or unacceptable behaviour. The recent introduction of the Terrorism (POP) Act adds specific consideration and risk mitigation of terrorist-motivated attacks and disruption to event organiser’s responsibilities, which has garnered some concern about increase of costs and limited national availability of barriers. There is a clear financial benefit associated with attendees feeling safe within events, but little research into how this can be maximised.
My paper discusses some of the findings from my recent examination of safety and security at English music events., in particular the impact that common counter-terror measures have on feelings of safety.
| Institutional Affiliation | Coventry University |
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