New Police Powers In Place For Burgess Hill Protests

New policing powers are being introduced in Burgess Hill as protesters and counter-protesters prepare to gather in the town yesterday evening (15 September).

Sussex Police says the powers will restrict the wearing of face coverings within a designated area, where they are being used to conceal someone's identity while taking part in protest activity.

The measures, introduced under the Crime and Policing Act 2026, remained in place until midnight.

Police say the decision follows incidents of criminality during protests elsewhere in the country.

Chief Superintendent Mark Offord said the force wanted to facilitate lawful and peaceful protest while addressing concerns about intimidation and criminality.

He said the new powers would be applied impartially to all groups taking part in protests.

Chief Supt Offord added that officers would take "necessary and proportionate action" where lawful protest crosses into criminality.

Under the new powers, anyone within the designated area who wears a face covering to conceal their identity while participating in protest activity could be committing an offence and may be arrested.

Police have advised those attending the demonstrations to follow officers' instructions and ensure their behaviour remains lawful.