Bag searches and extra CCTV part of new security measures at council meetings

These new measures, including bag searches, will come into effect for members of the public starting with the next full council meeting on Wednesday October 11.

Visitors have been warned that if they don’t agree to these checks then they will not be allowed into the building.

A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “As a council, we remain committed to ensuring that we are able to take democratic decisions in open session, however the safety and security of visitors, councillors and staff must be a priority.

“We will keep the security measures under review and in the meantime, remind residents that you can still watch all of our public meetings online.”

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As well as bag searches there will also be a handheld security detector search along with enhanced security and CCTV coverage across the rest of town hall.

Full council meetings are open to members of the public to attend in person but can also be watched online using the authority’s webcasting channel.

Council officials have advised visitors to arrive early to try and avoid any queues that may build up at town hall because of the new measures.