English Defence League hold demonstration in Birmingham city centre

As a force we are vastly experienced in accommodating and preparing for such events having run police operations around similar protests in Solihull, Walsall and Dudley - the most recent of which have passed off without incident.

We have developed professional links with EDL organisers who recognise it is in the group's best interests to protest and have their say peacefully.

EDL haven't been able to confirm the exact number of protestors but we expect there will be fewer than 100. We are planning for them to muster in Broad Street for around 1pm before walking to Centenary Square where they will protest until about 2.30pm.

Our understanding is that there will be a counter protest in Victoria Square between 1-4pm. Ensuring there is no protestor crossover, and minimising the risk of any potential flashpoints, is a key element of our event planning.

Trained police negotiators have been in regular contact with both the EDL and counter protesters to identify their intentions and stress the importance members protest peacefully. However, we will have a highly visible police presence on the ground and sufficient police resources on standby should there be any trouble.

We recognise the impact such protests can have on the city but we have no power to ban a static peaceful protest. In fact, we and the council have a duty to facilitate the fundamental democratic right of peaceful protest.

We are planning to keep disruption for those who live, work or plan to visit Birmingham on that day to a minimum, while ensuring a safe and peaceful event for all concerned. For us, it's a case of business as usual.