Tram services in Manchester city center have been suspended today due to a Britain First march taking place. Supporters of the far-right group gathered near Manchester’s Piccadilly station before marching to St Peter’s Square. A counter-protest by anti-racism groups, Resist Britain First, also assembled at Piccadilly Gardens, causing disruptions to roads and Metrolink services. The Bee Network confirmed the closure of tram stops at Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street, and St Peter’s Square due to the planned protest. The Metrolink suspension was initiated after counter-protesters obstructed tram tracks but have since been removed by the police.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) stated that officers are working to minimize disruptions and ensure safety in the Piccadilly Gardens area. Additional powers have been granted to the police to handle any disturbances during the protests, including a Section 34 dispersal order for the city center and a Section 60 order allowing stop and search powers and the removal of face coverings.
According to the police, the majority of protesters from both sides are peaceful. GMP emphasized that officers are facilitating the right to protest safely, with most participants causing no issues as the march progresses towards St. Peter’s Square. A heightened police presence has been deployed for the protests following previous violent incidents during a Britain First march in February, where 11 arrests were made amidst clashes with counter-protesters. Video footage from the previous march showed various altercations and scuffles, prompting increased security measures for the current event.