West Suffolk Council introduces security after 'disruption'

West Suffolk Council has taken action after members of the public were asked to leave the council chamber in September 2023 and February this year.

At the September meeting, a member of the public walked into the middle of the chamber, resulting in the meeting being suspended while police were called.

In September last year a member of the public walked into the middle of the chamber (Image: Joao Santos)

During a full council meeting on Tuesday, two security personnel stood at the entrance of the council building and in the chamber for its duration.

Cllr Gerald Kelly, who deals with governance and regulatory, said: “Security has always been in the buildings when council meetings are held but since we experienced disruption at some recent meetings, it is now overtly in the room for full council, as it is at many other local authorities.

“This is intended both to reassure those taking part in the democratic process but also help manage access to the building after hours.”

West Suffolk House, where the council is based (Image: Jason Noble)

Cllr Kelly also said the council had also made it clear where the public areas are and has brought in live streaming to allow more people to see its work.

The public and council business areas, where public speaking also takes place, are now separated by dividers.

The council has also clarified rules around public speaking.