Southampton Demonstrations: Key individual networks (KINS) update from A/Inspector Richards, Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team – Tuesday 17th March 2026

“Dear Kins.

On 13 March 2026, there was a further demonstration outside Highfield House Hotel, attended by both a protest group and a counter‑protest group.

Throughout the event, noise levels were monitored, with several individuals using amplifying equipment such as loudhailers. Officers engaged with participants where necessary to manage volume and encourage cooperation. We recognise that noise associated with protest activity particularly chanting and the use of megaphones can impact residents and businesses, and officers continue to remind participants to remain mindful of the wider community.

For clarity, chanting and the use of megaphones are permitted at lawful protests under the right to freedom of expression, unless the content becomes threatening, incites hatred or violence, or constitutes targeted abuse. Where these thresholds are met, police intervention may be required either at the time or following a post‑event assessment.

The use of police powers during protests is determined on a case‑by‑case basis. Each demonstration is assessed on its own merits to establish whether legal thresholds have been met. This is why certain powers may be applied on one occasion but not required on another.

We will continue to monitor these events closely and act proportionately to maintain both public order and civil liberties. Where legal thresholds are met to impose conditions or take enforcement action, those powers will be used appropriately.

At the end of the demonstration, both groups undertook a march up the High Street. This was monitored and appropriately resourced, resulting in minimal disruption to traffic and the surrounding community.

A police presence remained until all groups had fully dispersed.

There were no arrests, no disorder, and no dispersal powers were required.

If you have any concerns or information you wish to share, you can contact us via:

• Online reporting
  • 101 (non-emergency)
  • 999 (emergency only)

Contact your local policing team | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary

Yozanne

A/Inspector 21260 Yozanne Richards

Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team

Portswood Police Station”

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Highfield House Hotel protest update.

Nadine

Nadine Johnson

HRA Communications

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