Durham University closes several buildings following police riot warning

Durham University has closed several of its campus buildings following reports of planned far-right protests expected this evening.

Police threatened a “robust” crackdown on the potential disturbances, explaining in a statement that there would be an increased police presence around the city.

A Durham City Police statement read: “Police are aware of reports circulating online of planned potential disorder in Durham City this evening.

“There will be an increased police presence throughout the day, and a dispersal order for the city has been in place since noon”.

The statement added that police will be given the allowance of section 60A and 60AA stop and search powers and the permission to remove face coverings that intend to disguise people’s identity.

Durham Constabulary’s chief superintendent, Dave Coxon, added: “While we will always support and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, violent disorder from people intent on harming our communities will not be tolerated. Our officers are committed to protecting the communities we serve, and advice has been given to residents and local businesses to reassure them of our support”.

Palatinate confirmed that university buildings, such as the Bill Bryson Library, have been closed for the time being.

Old Elvet Prayer Room, a space used by the Durham University Islamic Society, was closed at 2pm on Tuesday 6th August. Other prayer rooms are still open with an “enhanced security presence”. The Bill Bryson Library was shut today at 4:30pm – it is normally open outside of term time until 10pm.

Durham University sent a statement to students earlier today on the riots occurring across the country. Issued on the joint behalf of vice-chancellor and warden Karen O’Brien and Dan Lonsdale, the president of the Student Union, the statement read: “We condemn in the strongest possible terms any incidents of racism or those targeting individuals or groups for their religious, political or cultural beliefs.

“Our primary concern at the current time is the welfare, safety and security of our students, staff and visitors. We are monitoring the situation in Durham City closely, working actively with the police. Those taking part in public disorder represent a small minority, and it is important that we remember this. Durham is a diverse, international community with students from more than 120 countries worldwide. Every year we welcome students from across the globe, who receive a warm welcome from our Durham community and beyond.

“We remain in close touch with fellow universities in the region and they are in our thoughts. We reached out to our counterparts at Sunderland and Teesside universities over the weekend on behalf of the entire Durham community, to offer support and compassion for what they have experienced”.

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