Due to this lack of engagement there is still an absence of any information, which would give an indication as to what sort of protest to expect on May 4th. Police are keen to stress that they still do not anticipate any serious disorder but do anticipate a level of disruption to the City and, consequently, its businesses. The policing plan devised in response to this protest aims to minimise this as far as possible.

The May Day holiday is traditionally a busy day in the city centre with families shopping and eating out and generally enjoying all that Brighton has to offer. Visitor numbers increase dramatically if the weather is good and it is important that the commercial life of the city continues as normal. This is particularly the case in these difficult economic times when our myriad small traders, that contribute so much to Brighton’s sense of place, need every penny they can get to see them through the recession.

“Business as usual” should be our response on the day.

The Chief Inspector responsible for Neighbourhood Policing in the City is Laurence Taylor and if any businesses have any specific concerns or become aware of any issues that might be relevant to the policing of the day contact him on laurence.taylor@sussex.pnn.police.uk