Stadium Safety


A survey of the local environment will highlight any surrounding roads that are likely to impact HVM. For example, consider how traffic currently flows around a venue’s location and whether this can be reviewed to keep vehicles further away.


A hostile vehicle attack typically starts on public roads, often with little or no warning. However, for a vehicle to pose a serious threat to a property, it usually needs some distance to accelerate. If the road layout naturally limits that “run-up” space, the risk to the site is significantly reduced.


Special Considerations For Football Stadiums


Football stadiums present unique challenges due to the sheer volume of fans attending matches, with tens of thousands often arriving and departing within short timeframes. On non-match days, many stadiums serve as multi-purpose venues, hosting events for other clubs, corporate functions, and community activities. This diverse usage means that security solutions must be adaptable to changing operational needs.


Facilities managers should carefully consider the flow of people in and out of the stadium, ensuring safe and efficient movement while maintaining robust segregation between rival fan groups to prevent disorder. Additionally, with supporters travelling from overseas, stadiums must be prepared to accommodate varying arrival patterns and cultural expectations. Effective hostile vehicle mitigation in these environments is not just about physical barriers – it's also about creating a flexible, welcoming space that can respond to the dynamic nature of modern stadium operations.


Choosing The Right Bollard:


Fixed, Automated Or Temporary? Once vulnerabilities and access points are identified, the key decision is whether to install fixed, automated, or temporary bollards, depending on the level of threat.


Fixed bollards act as a strong deterrent and are ideal for pedestrianised areas, cycle routes, or places where people gather. They can be paired with planters, offering both protection and visual appeal.


Expert resources Facilities Managers could consider


A helpful starting point to find out more about the range of bollard options available is the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), a Government-backed resource for physical and personnel protective security: www.npsa.gov.uk


Another useful resource is the Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA), which has a dedicated hub of information purely on HVM product that are manufactured, supplied and installed by its members: https://hvmhub.com/about/ Resources include advice on threat risk assessment, spec writing and installer selection tips.


For more information on the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 itself, the Government has prepared a useful factsheet, including details on the scope of the plans and how this is likely to be enforced: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ terrorism-protection-of-premises-act-2025-factsheets/terrorism-protection-of-premises-act-2025-overarching-factsheet


With the new legislation now in force, football stadiums and other venues across the UK are reassessing their protective security strategies. The ongoing risk of security threats means that operators need reassurance that the measures they have in place are sufficiently robust to safeguard both people and property. It is essential that any approach to mitigation instils confidence that venues are well prepared to respond effectively to potential incidents.


HVM has an important role to play when forming an effective physical security strategy for venues looking to protect themselves from a potential act of terror or any other serious crimes where a hostile vehicle could be used. Protecting property and, most importantly, those who visit or work there.


FSM 15


FSM


Most venues, however, still require vehicle access. Retractable bollards provide flexibility, allowing for traffic flow changes or events. Where there is an immediate threat, temporary security products can be hired while permanent measures are put in place. Manufacturers and installers of HVM systems can support security teams in selecting the right solutions through the risk assessment process.


For some venues, unnecessary,


Balancing Security With Aesthetics particularly


visible bollards may feel intrusive or where managers


want security


without reminding staff or visitors of potential threats. In these cases, anti-terrorism products can blend into the environment – for example, planters that double as protection.


Key considerations before choosing a solution include: • Bollard height and visibility, especially in low light • Ground conditions, as permanent bollards require foundations • Placement and spacing in relation to pedestrian movement


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36