Busiest Tourism Towns in the UK

This Summer, the influx of visitors to the UK will increase population density (35.1 million by the end of 2023)¹, meaning there could be an increase in accidents, such as vehicle collisions, and, unfortunately, crime. Following this, the high concentration of tourists makes popular attractions and landmarks areas a cause for concern.

With this in mind, our team of hostile vehicle mitigation experts (HVM) identified the cities that will likely have an influx of tourists during the Summer months, and that should remain extra cautious.

Our new research considers factors such as the current resident population and the potential number of visitors from overseas². This summer, the cities that need to take extra care include London, Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool, Birmingham, Nottingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Leicester, and Edinburgh.

London

Given London’s already substantial population of 9,648,000 residents, combined with the significant influx of potential overseas visitors totalling 16,118², local authorities should consider heightened security measures, surveillance, and effective law enforcement strategies to protect locals and visitors.

Not only do local authorities need to consider extra security for crime reasons, but residents and tourists exploring this location during a busy time should be extra cautious of things such as traffic and high footfall areas. Recently, across the UK, there’s been an increase in accidental vehicle incidents, and if this type of accident occurred within a busy location, the consequences would be detrimental to a high proportion of people.

Manchester

Manchester is currently making important strides in protecting the city’s population by implementing HVM across key locations. This is a positive move from the city, however, HVM experts encourage the northern location to take extra care this summer, with its population of 2,791,000 and a substantial influx of potential overseas visitors (1,230²).

As a vibrant and culturally rich city, its popular landmarks and attractions will inevitably attract large crowds; iconic sites such as the Manchester Arena, home to large-scale events, and the bustling shopping district of Manchester Arndale, which attracts numerous visitors daily.

We’ve witnessed Manchester’s progress in terms of security measures since the Manchester Arena attacks, I must commend the city for its efforts. It’s likely that this will be on most cities’ agenda. However, during busy tourism months, authorities should consider enhancing security protocols at popular tourist spots, implementing perimeter protection measures, increasing police presence, and fostering better communication between law enforcement and the community are areas where continued focus is needed. Businesses should also play a part in making safer cities, and implementing Martyn’s Law measures would be a good place to start.

Glasgow

Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is home to numerous famous landmarks, including Glasgow Cathedral, The Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow Science Centre, The SSE Hydro, and The University of Glasgow. Busy areas like this pose a significant risk when it comes to unexpected accidents, such as vehicle collisions. Even though these incidents may be an accident, if occured in a bustling location like Glasgow, they can lead to considerable property damage or harm to life.

Like the above cities, Liverpool, Birmingham, Nottingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Leicester, and Edinburgh should implement extra security measures within high footfall and traffic areas.

Traffic control measures

To prevent vehicle collisions from causing damage, local authorities should look to implement traffic control measures such as bollards, barriers, or traffic calming solutions. If products like these are already implemented, our team advise ensuring HVM products are being tested regularly to ensure they’re performing effectively.

Our goal isn’t to scare people or deter tourists from these thriving locations, but rather to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone. Thriving cities are meant to be enjoyed, and it’s essential that residents and visitors alike feel a sense of security while exploring and experiencing all that these vibrant destinations have to offer.

By prioritising effective security measures and making them known to the public, we can foster an environment where people can fully enjoy their surroundings without unnecessary worry.

It’s important to strike a balance between maintaining a safe environment and preserving the openness and freedom that define our cities. Highlighting the presence of security measures should not create an atmosphere of fear or restriction but rather provide reassurance and peace of mind.

It’s likely that most major cities will have the correct amount of safety measures or will be in the process of implementing them, but as we head into busier periods, it’s our duty as perimeter security experts to share gentle reminders to our thriving cities.

To learn more about the best security measures for your business or location, get in touch with our experts here: https://www.heald.uk.com/get-in-touch/

Sources:

https://www.visitbritain.org/2023-tourism-forecast
Information gathered from International Passenger Survey, Office for National Statistics. Figures of overseas visitors (staying overnight) are based on small sample sizes for all cities with the exception of London (2022 data). For more information, please visit: https://www.visitbritain.org/inbound-trends-uk-town
Learn more about Terroism (Protection of Premises Bill) here: https://www.heald.uk.com/news/what-is-the-terrorism-protection-of-premises-bill/

Published: 31st July 2023