City Centre Businesses – Reassurance and Vigilance
5th May 2026, 11:37 am
Following the announcement that the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) has raised the national terrorism threat level from ‘substantial’ to ‘severe’, we are sharing this update to provide reassurance and clarity for businesses operating across Manchester city centre.
The increase means that an attack is considered ‘highly likely’ at a national level. It reflects a broader and changing national threat picture. While this change comes shortly after the horrific terrorist attack in London earlier in the week, it is important to note that the decision has not been taken as a direct result of any single incident. Importantly, there is no specific intelligence to suggest a direct threat to Manchester, the city centre or to local businesses.
We recognise that news of this nature can be concerning for business owners, managers, staff and customers. City centre businesses play a vital role in keeping Manchester open, welcoming and vibrant, and partners across the city are working closely together to support safety, confidence and reassurance.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have enhanced their operational response as a precautionary measure. This includes increased high visibility patrols across the city centre, particularly in busy locations such as retail areas, hospitality zones, transport hubs, office districts and night‑time economy locations. These measures are intended to provide both reassurance and deterrence.
While there is no specific threat, the raised national threat level means it is appropriate to maintain proportionate vigilance, in line with existing arrangements. Businesses are therefore encouraged to:
- Remain aware of surroundings and encourage staff to do the same
- Make sure normal security, access control and supervision procedures are followed
- Be alert to unattended items or unusual behaviour in public or shared spaces
- Make sure staff and managers understand how and when to report concerns
- Use established reporting channels (999 in an emergency, 101 for non‑urgent concerns)
These actions should be carried out in a calm and measured way and should not disrupt normal business operations or create unnecessary alarm.
We also recognise that individuals may respond differently to this news. Staff may feel anxious or unsettled and businesses are encouraged to look out for their teams, support wellbeing where needed and make sure staff feel confident about raising any concerns.
We also encourage businesses and staff to rely only on trusted, official sources of information, such as GMP, the local authority or other recognised public bodies. Unverified information or speculation, particularly on social media, can cause unnecessary concern. Sharing clear, accurate and authoritative messages helps maintain confidence and reduces the risk of misinformation spreading.
Manchester stands firmly against hatred and violence in all forms. We stand in solidarity with communities who may feel particularly affected at this time and reaffirm our shared commitment to ensuring the city centre remains a place where everyone feels safe and welcome.
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