The demonstration is one in a series of such events organised by the EDL taking place around the country.
A great deal of proactive and positive engagement and communication has taken place between police and the community, partners and local faith leaders to explain the situation and the way in which the event will be policed.
Peter Conniff, Chair of the Police Authority, said: “The Police Authority fully understands the community’s sentiments and concerns however, it is fact that there are no legal powers to prevent people congregating in, or simply visiting, a town with a group of like-minded people, however large that group might be.
“The safety of the local community and all those in Luton on the day is our top priority and we hope that excessive disruption is not caused to local people and businesses. We are reassured that all possible actions are being taken to facilitate a peaceful event.
“Siting the protest, the counter protests and reassuring the local community simultaneously in a busy town centre will be a real challenge. The Authority understands that some people are unhappy at some of the plans, but the safety of the public, demonstrators, businesses and other stakeholders is the absolute top priority.
“The Police have the backing of the Authority to deal firmly with anyone committing crime or disorder. A great deal of effort has gone into handling the consequences of this protest and local people have been kept informed of what is happening.”
