Palestine march planned for Birmingham city centre this weekend as police issue statement

A large demonstration demanding a ceasefire in Gaza is due to take place in Birmingham this weekend.

Numerous rallys and marches against the conflict in Gaza have taken place since the war began in October with Birmingham having seen a number of pro-Palestine marches in recent weeks.

The protests have seen thousands of people gather across Birmingham, calling for an end to the conflict. Sit down protests have also been held inside Birmingham's New Street station. Now, the 'Big West Midlands Protest for Palestine' is set to take place this Saturday (December 16).

A protest is set to start at the Alum Rock Road and Highfield Road junction at 11.30am, with the Birmingham city centre march getting underway at 1pm outside the Barclays bank. Birmingham police have issued a statement to say they are working with organisers to ensure the marches take place safely.

The statement, read: "We are working with organisers to make ensure this takes place safely and securely. Over the last few months we have seen a number of vigils, demonstrations and other public gatherings since the attacks in Israel took place.

"While there have been pockets of disorder and some instances of hate speech, the majority of the protest activity has been lawful and has taken place without incident. Policing protest is always a balancing act between the rights and views of different groups, including the rights of the broader public. It is important that communities understand the responsibilities on organisers in relation to the protests."