Updated 20/6/26 Portswood is expected to see further protests on Saturday afternoon (June 20).
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A “significant” “vigil and march” will be taking place from around 1pm, expected to travel from Portswood police station, near Belmont Road, to the Central Police Station – although the exact route remained unclear at the time of writing.
UKIP leader Nick Tenconi will reportedly be attending.
Meanwhile Southampton Stand Up to Racism is inviting supporters to meet at 12pm outside Waitrose to form “a peaceful anti-racist response” [update: police say they will now assemble from 11am - 2pm on St Denys Road near Trago Lounge].
According to an email newsletter from Cllr Sarah Bogle, leader of Southampton City Council, “there will be a higher police presence to ensure the protest takes place safely and within the law, and that people can move around the city without fear of harm or intimidation”.
“Alongside this, our Stronger Communities team has been talking to residents, local businesses and places of worship to ensure that we are aware of their issues and concerns, and we are working together with the police to support them,” she added.
Update:
In a statement issued on Saturday, Hampshire Constabulary confirmed the procession intends to move from Portswood Police Station at 1pm, making its way through the city to Southampton Central Police station. They said under Section 14 of the Public Order Act failure to comply with protest conditions is an offence and can lead to arrest.
Protest route. Image HIWC
Chief Superintendent Simon Dodds said: “Policing has a long history of facilitating peaceful protest and upholding the legal right to do so.
“We have resources in place to police today’s protests, and we have been liaising with organisers, local partners and the community ahead of time to ensure we balance the rights of those peacefully protesting, and the rights of others to go about their lives without being subject to serious disruption.
“We know from speaking with people in the local community that there is a real concern around further disorder following the events on 2 June, for which a number of people were arrested and charged.
Counter assembly map. Image: HIWC
“Public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder will always be our priority, and it is for this reason that we are utilising legislation under the Public Order Act.
“Decisions such as these are not taken lightly. We endeavour to use any legislation of this kind proportionately to mitigate any disruption to the Portswood community on the day, and to ensure the safety of all.
“If you have any concerns on the day, please don’t hesitate to approach and speak with officers in the area.”