Security Services Visit Chichester To Advise Businesses On Protecting Against Terrorism

Introduction

The National Counter Terrorism Security Office, which is part of MI5, will be simulating a terrorism attack in Chichester on Tuesday 12 June 2007, in order to advise businesses on how to prevent, handle and recover from an attack.

The event, named Project Argus, which is being organised by Chichester District Council in partnership with Chichester City Council and Sussex Police, is free to all businesses on a 'first come, first served' basis. It will take place at the Assembly Rooms, North Street, Chichester (City Council Offices) at 6.00 pm.

The simulation, using audio-visual effects as well as film footage, will take businesses through the immediate aftermath of an attack and how they can plan to respond to ensure the safety of their staff and customers. It will cover the response by the emergency services and how this, and the subsequent investigation, may give rise to business continuity issues – issues which following the bomb in Manchester City Centre caused 80% of the businesses who had no plans in place, to cease trading within 18 months of the attack.

Those taking part will be given a series of questions and challenges throughout the session to tackle both individually and in groups. There will be a panel of senior representatives available, including Emergency Planning Officers, from the Security Service, Emergency Services and District Council, to answer questions and offer advice.

Whilst centred around a terrorist incident, the evening will provide valuable information and advice that can be equally useful to prevent local crime and to recover, and be able to continue to trade, following a fire, serious crime, flooding or other more common incidents than could affect the city centre.

John Cherry, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resources at Chichester District Council, said,

'This is a unique opportunity for proprietors and managers of businesses of all sizes to get together to prepare for any serious emergency, regardless of the cause, that could affect Chichester and their ability to trade normally. There are still some places left and so we would encourage local businesses to contact the Council and book onto this valuable course.'

Managers or proprietors wishing to attend, can book a place by contacting the City Centre Manager, Kim Long, on 01243 534677, or email klong@chichester.gov.uk Refreshments and sandwiches will be available for those people coming directly from work.

Date of Release: 3 June 2007