BOURNEMOUTH town centre businesses have been advised to stay open by Dorset Police despite worries around planned protests.

Dorset Police have advised Bournemouth town centre businesses to keep their doors open despite concerns of a far-right protest on August 18 outside Bournemouth town hall.

Additional powers have been given to police ahead of the planned far-right protests in Bournemouth on August 11 with a large police presence in the area expected. 

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said: “Our local neighbourhood policing team and CSAS officers from BCP Council will be out in the town over the weekend to speak to businesses about any concerns they may have and respond to any issues.

"We are not advising businesses to close on the day as we know very many people will still be visiting the town to enjoy all it has to offer."

“We have provided businesses with some advice and steps they can take to protect their premises during protests or large events.”

Officers will be able to use powers under section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to stop and search people for weapons without needing an explanation.

Officers will be able to ask people to remove face coverings under Section 60AA of the same act.