Security around Windsor Castle will be significantly heightened next week as King Charles prepares to host Bola Tinubu and Oluremi Tinubu for a state visit on March 18 and 19.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that extensive security arrangements will be in place across Windsor, including a temporary expansion of the restricted airspace above the town.
While Windsor Castle already has a permanent airspace restriction, the exclusion zone will be extended on March 18 from 07:00 to 23:59 GMT, in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority.
Adrian Hall, chief superintendent of Thames Valley Police’s joint operations unit, explained that airspace restrictions are only part of a broader security plan.
“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not,” Hall said.
He added a warning for anyone considering breaching the restrictions:
“We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested.”
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Authorities said a large number of officers with specialist capabilities will be deployed throughout Windsor. This will include search teams, armed officers, mounted police, and roads policing units.
Neighbourhood officers and teams conducting unpredictable patrols will also be active in the town, engaging the public while deterring criminal activity. The police will also utilise Windsor’s CCTV network and hostile vehicle mitigation barriers to ensure safety.
“As a force, we have a vast amount of experience in policing Royal events in Windsor and significant planning and preparation has gone into this event,” Hall added. “We will ensure everyone attending the state visit, including dignitaries and spectators, as well as the public, are kept safe to enjoy the historic occasion.”
Several road closures and parking restrictions will begin from March 17. Officers warned that temporary disruptions could affect roads in and around Windsor, while some footways and pedestrian crossings in the town centre will close periodically between 09:30 and 12:30 on March 17 and 18 for a ceremonial procession.
Hall urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity:
“The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999.”