The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Prescott, Merseyside) (Emergency) Regulations 2025 – UK health and safety law implications for duty holders
What has changed
The Prescott area in Merseyside is subject to an emergency Regulation restricting airspace and flight operations. The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Prescott, Merseyside) (Emergency) Regulations 2025 introduce an automatic restriction on certain flight activities within a defined zone until the emergency is lifted or updated by the relevant authority. Operators and sites nearby that rely on aerial activities must plan for immediate change and potential disruption.
Why it matters
For businesses, the changes create direct risk to drones, site surveys, filming, inspections and other activities that depend on flight operations. Non-compliance could result in enforcement action, work stoppages and damage to reputations. The update highlights the need for up to date airspace awareness as part of regulatory compliance and HSE requirements when operating near restricted zones.
What organisations should do next
Action points to align with the new requirements include the following steps.
- Identify all sites and operations affected by the Prescott emergency airspace restrictions.
- Consult authoritative notices to airmen and the Civil Aviation Authority for current boundaries, timelines and any exemptions.
- Review drone and aerial operations risk assessments and revise control measures to reflect the restricted zone.
- Update contractor and supplier arrangements to ensure drone operators are compliant and properly supervised.
- Update internal policies and procedures, including working instructions for aerial activities and incident reporting.
- Enhance governance by designating a competent person to monitor airspace changes and oversee compliance across sites.
- Provide staff and contractor training on the new rules and the importance of immediate reporting of any non compliance.
- Align risk management systems such as ISO 45001 with the new requirements and integrate with health and safety risk assessments.
- Consider partner support from Synergos for risk assessment updates and management system alignment, for example health and safety risk assessments and ISO 45001.
Enforcement will be undertaken under the relevant legislation. Organisations should establish a rapid response process to monitor notices and ensure timely compliance across all affected operations.
For ongoing guidance, organisations may engage with competent persons and consider tailored support packages and training from Synergos where appropriate.
Summary wrap up: Action now protects people, preserves business continuity and reduces regulatory and operational risk in the face of emergency airspace restrictions.
