In recent weeks, we’ve heard some murmurings that digital mapping or virtual tours might fall foul of the upcoming Martyn’s Law (Terrorism, Protection of Premises, Bill). Let’s put that reasonable concern to bed.
Martyn’s Law exists for a good reason. It’s designed to protect the public and improve emergency preparedness at venues facing the risk of terror attacks. But the law isn’t about hiding floorplans or restricting access to visual information. It’s about proportionate security measures and clear communication.
And that’s where interactive, WCAG-compliant virtual tours like ours come in.
🛡️ Security Planning
We’ve already seen how our tours are being used in emergency service briefings, access audits, and training scenarios.
For example:
✔️Airport operators have reviewed layouts remotely with counter-terror teams.
✔️NHS Trusts have used our secure tours to brief staff on fire escape routes and incident protocols.
✔️One UK police force used the tour we created of their own custody suite for scenario planning and risk assessment.
✔️Tours, identical to the ones we create are used by RSET to create interactive training simulations for the US Military, colleges, hospitals and major sports arenas.
In short: the right digital content, shared with the right people, with the right safeguards strengthens preparedness, not weakens it.
🧠 Controlled Access
✔️Tours can be redacted or edited as required. No back-office areas. No sensitive kit. No alarms, CCTV positions, or staff-only escape routes unless requested by the client for internal use.
✔️Ocean3D.co.uk always respect site-specific risk assessments and can offer custom privacy settings to limit what the public sees vs what an internal team sees.
🌍 Public Reassurance
✔️For the public, these tours help reduce anxiety, particularly for those with hidden disabilities or past trauma. Knowing what to expect in an unfamiliar setting reduces disorientation and improves confidence. This is not just an accessibility win; it supports crowd flow, reduces on-site delays, and lowers the burden on staff.
🧭 Marketing, Access and Safety Are Not Opposing Forces
Too often, organisations are told to choose: promote or protect. But the reality is that safe, accessible digital previews improve both.
✔️Fewer on-the-day issues.
✔️Reduced crowding at entrances.
✔️Improved emergency communication.
All while boosting booking confidence and making your venue more inclusive.
We believe that getting ahead of Martyn’s Law doesn’t mean silencing or removing helpful tools. It means using them better. Sharing responsibly. Preparing visibly.
If you’re involved in public venue planning, from theatres to stations to schools, and you’d like to understand how this technology is already being used to support safety and compliance, let’s talk.
We’re not just here to map. We’re here to help you prepare.
Chris Wood
Owner & CEO
Ocean3D.co.uk