A Palestine solidarity march planned for Saturday 19 April in Southend-on-Sea has had its start time pushed back by Essex Police, over concerns for public safety and the wellbeing of local communities.
The demonstration, organised by a coalition of Essex-based activist groups, was originally scheduled to begin at 1:30pm from Westcliff Station. However, police have imposed a condition delaying the start to 2:30pm, citing the need for a “proportionate policing plan” and to ensure “everyone’s safety and wellbeing”.
The march is set to pass through an area that’s home to a small but active Jewish community, including several synagogues. The timing has raised particular concern among Jewish residents, as the event coincides with Passover and will overlap with the time many will be walking home from religious services.
Michael Nelkin, a member and former chair of the Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation, said: “The timing and location of the demonstration over Passover is a cause for concern, especially as synagogue-goers will be walking home from the service when the protest begins.”
The route of the protest will take demonstrators from Westcliff Station, along Hamlet Court Road, onto London Road, and will finish at Victoria Circus. Organisers say the march will include speeches, performances, and chanting at the final gathering point.
The activists are calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, an end to UK arms sales to Israel, and justice for Palestinians – including an end to what they describe as the occupation of Gaza.
Recent changes by the Home Secretary have expanded police powers to protect places of worship from protests deemed disruptive or intimidating. These powers now allow authorities to place conditions on the timing and routes of protests that could interfere with religious practice.
In a statement, Essex Police said:
“We are aware of an event scheduled to begin at Westcliff station tomorrow at 1.30pm. To ensure everyone’s safety and wellbeing, a condition has been attached moving its start time back to 2.30pm. We have an appropriate and proportionate policing plan in place.”
The force added:
“We’re continuing to engage with our communities to ensure they are safe and feel safe. We would encourage anyone who experiences threatening behaviour, or is worried about their safety, to contact us. Equally, anyone who sees an incident of concern should also contact us.”
What do you think about this planned protest activity and the police’s response? Share your comments below on this article.
There will be a forceful pro-Israel counter demonstration