UKIP Rally Planned for Southampton’s Bargate
The UK Independence Party (UKIP) has announced plans for a demonstration in Southampton’s city centre. UKIP describe themselves as ‘the party of the patriotic, working class and believe Christianity should be put back into the heart of government and that our culture should come first.’ Adding ‘we are the voice for the voiceless – vote UKIP if you are sick of your hard earned money going to foreigners and foreign entities.’ Many people in Southampton will agree with their views and some may disagree.
The march, scheduled for Saturday, January 25 at 1pm, will gather at the historic Bargate monument, a location that has been the traditional starting point for numerous political demonstrations throughout Southampton’s history.
This announcement comes just weeks after a UKIP event at a local venue was cancelled due to safety concerns, highlighting the increasingly charged political atmosphere in the city.
Local authorities are preparing for the possibility of both supporters and counter-demonstrators attending the event. Southampton City Council has confirmed they are working with police to ensure public safety during the demonstration.
Community leaders have called for calm, emphasizing the need for peaceful political expression while maintaining public order. The police have stated they will have sufficient officers present to manage any potential confrontations.
A UKIP spokesperson described the march as part of a wider national campaign, though political analysts note this comes at a time when anti-immigration demonstrations have been increasing across the UK.
The march location, the Bargate, stands as Southampton’s most prominent medieval monument and has historically served as a gathering point for various political and social movements throughout the centuries.
Local residents are advised to expect some disruption to city centre activities during the afternoon of January 25. The police have confirmed they will issue updates on any traffic arrangements or diversions closer to the date.