Law enforcement agencies have imposed restrictions on a demonstration protesting the placement of refugees in a city hotel.
The city announced “increased officer presence” at the main and counter-protests outside the Thistle City Barbican hotel in Islington, north London on Saturday.
Similar gatherings are planned for the same day outside The New Bridge Hotel in Newcastle.
According to police, the initiative against the use of the building in Islington came from local residents under the slogan “Thistle Barbican must go – locals are against it”.
The counter-event was organised by the Stand Up To Racism movement, with the participation of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, Finsbury Park Mosque and the local branch of the Labour Party.
The law enforcement statement noted that the action by those opposed to placing refugees in the hotel “received support from outside the area, which could increase the number of participants.”
Among the online communities that have announced their participation are British Patriots and Together for Children.
London police said they were prepared to “monitor protest activity near other hotels in the capital used to accommodate asylum seekers.”
Restrictions for the main action include the mandatory presence of demonstrators within the King Charles Square, as well as a time frame from 13:00 to 16:00.
The counter-protesters are restricted to Lever Street near the intersection with Central Street, with permitted times from 12:00 to 16:00.
Operation leader Chief Superintendent Claire Haynes said: “We have been coordinating with organisers on both sides for several days, continuing to engage with district services, community groups and partners.
“We recognize the strength of the convictions of all participants.
“Our officers will maintain order impartially, protecting the right to safely protest, but suppressing any unlawful actions.
“Using powers under the Public Gatherings Act, we have put in place conditions to prevent large-scale disorder and reduce the negative impact on the lives of local residents and businesses.
“Two separate zones have been designated for opposing groups, allowing them to see and hear each other while maintaining distance.”
Information is also being circulated online about a rally called “For Children, For the Future” planned for Saturday outside The New Bridge Hotel in Newcastle.
The group Stand Up To Racism announced an alternative event at the nearby Laing Gallery under the slogan “Stop the far right and fascists in Newcastle”.
Organisers said: “Extremists are once again trying to bring hate speech to the city, exploiting Islamophobia, anti-migrant sentiment and scapegoating.”
“Recent events in Epping and other areas have shown instances of threats and aggression towards refugees and migrants.
“Newcastle and the wider North East have historically resisted attempts to divide society. Whatever the challenge, racism and confrontation are not the answer.”
Northumbria Police have yet to provide an official comment.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
