Police announce EDL march road closures

An estimated 1,200 members of the English Defence League (EDL) are expected to march from the Town Hall to Main Street between 1pm and 3pm, with United Against Fascism (UAF) holding a protest at the same time. U

AF demonstrators will gather at All Saints Square at 1pm and then make their way to the Town Hall.

The protests are being held in response to a report issued last month detailing failings in the handling of child sexual exploitation (CSE) in Rotherham.

Around 1,000 police officers are expected to patrol the streets of the town to maintain the peace and road closures will be imposed along the route of the march.

The roads subject to closures on the day are: Main Street; Wilfred Street; Moorgate Street; and Westgate (at the junction with Main Street).

South Yorkshire Police Commander for Rotherham, Chief Supt Jason Harwin, said: “We respect an individual’s democratic right to protest and additional officers will be on duty to ensure a peaceful and safe protest for all.

“However, if people are attending with the intention of causing or participate in disorder, they will be identified and dealt with.”

A police spokeswoman said that the enquiry desk at Rotherham Police Station, on Main Street, would also be closed from 9pm on Friday — reopening again at 8am on Monday — as it was the final muster-point for EDL demonstrators.

Between 8am and 10pm on Saturday and from 10am to 6pm on Sunday enquiry desk services will relocate to Rawmarsh Police Station, Green Lane, Rawmarsh.

Mr Harwin added: “The event is likely to cause some disruption for local business and the public with road closures taking place for public safety.

"We will be looking to minimise any disruption where possible.

“I would like to thank everyone for their co-operation while this is ongoing and to know that we, with our partners, will strive to make the day as safe as possible.”