A policing operation will be taking place today, Sunday, due to a planned protest outside a Gloucester hotel housing asylum seekers.
Groups of anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters are due to gather outside the Ibis Hotel in Barnwood this afternoon.
A police spokesperson said: “Gloucestershire Constabulary upholds the right of individuals to protest in a peaceful manner, but will not hesitate in taking action against anyone who commits any unlawful act against either people or property.
“Officers hope to minimise disruption to other members of the public. They advise that journey times for motorists travelling in the area, including around Corinium Avenue and Saw Mills End, may take longer than usual and so to plan ahead.”
Deputy Chief Constable Katy Barrow-Grint said: “We have been in contact with individuals from the groups who have said they are planning to attend tomorrow and this has enabled us to put plans in place.
“Our aim is to keep people safe, and we also hope that minimal disruption will be caused to traffic and members of public in the area.
“We have not seen any disorder at other protests which have taken place in the county recently, and we hope this continues as it would not be tolerated and we would take action against anyone who breaks the law.
“The role of the police at such a protest is to keep everyone safe and carefully balance everyone’s individual rights, without fear or favour.”
Anyone who may have information about planned protests or disorder is encouraged to contact Gloucestershire Police by reporting online at https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/ro/report/ or calling 101.
