Concrete barriers in place at Birmingham’s Christmas Market to ‘prevent terror attacks’

Concrete barriers have been installed at Birmingham’s Christmas Market to foil potential terrorist attacks, it has been reported.

Up 5.5 million people are expected to visit the German Market before it closes on December 29, and the bollards are in place for their safety.

The threat level in Britain remains at “severe”, meaning an attack is “highly likely”.

However, West Midlands Police said the concrete barriers at Birmingham’s German Market were part of an original security plan and not the result of new intelligence.

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A spokesman said: “Our officers worked alongside colleagues from Birmingham City Council to plan this year’s annual Frankfurt Christmas Market.

“As part of this, a number of security measures were agreed before the market opened, including installing some concrete bollards at a number of locations.”

The concrete barriers were erected at the Colmore Row and Bennetts Hill areas of the city.

Superintendent Andy Parsons said: “The installation of the bollards formed part of the original security plan and is not a result of any new or specific intelligence.

“It is a busy time of year for the city and we want to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for everyone who visits over the festive period.

“Police will be working closely with market security staff to share information on a daily basis and to reassure people that there is an adequate police response available if needed.

“Our policing tactics and security measures are constantly reviewed and we, along with our partners, are working around the clock to keep our cities as safe as can be.”

A member of the emergency services at the market discussed the barriers with the Birmingham Mail, telling the paper: “We were told by the police they are there to prevent terrorist attacks.”