Protestors will be allowed to gather near the venue of the reception

Justice ministers are to discuss topics including terrorism and organised crime during three days of talks.

Parking restrictions, road closures and alterations to bus and tram timetables will be in place during the event.

Police have given the go-ahead for a limited protest as ministers arrive for a civic reception on Wednesday evening.

School closed

Anti-G8 campaigners had asked permission to march through the city centre to coincide with the ministers' arrival but this was refused.

Instead, about 150 people will be allowed to gather in Tudor Square near the Winter Garden, where the reception is being held.

One of the protestors, local GP Julie White, said: "The right to a peaceful protest is surely basic to democracy.

"That this is infringed when the justice ministers are here stinks of hypocrisy."

Road closures

The arrival of some of the world's most powerful politicians has disrupted lessons at the Shire Hill Hospital school in Nether Edge.

The specialist school has been closed for security reasons because of its proximity to the Marriot Hotel where ministers are meeting.

A city council spokesman said alternative educational arrangements had been made for the pupils.

In the city centre, parking restrictions were being enforced on Surrey Street, which was due to be closed entirely at lunchtime on Wednesday.

Norfolk Street and Arundel Gate were being closed later in the afternoon while the Winter Garden and Millennium Galleries were closed all day.