Occupy London moves to Hampstead Heath

Anti-capitalist group Occupy London has set up camp on Hampstead Heath in North London to protest against the City of London Corporation for “commercialising” the public space.

The group said that fifteen tents have already sprung up and many more are on their way to protest against the Corporation’s move to charge people for swimming in the bathing ponds earlier this year. The authority also tried to limit the number of dogs people could bring to the heath but the proposal was scrapped.

However, the City of Corporation told LondonlovesBusiness.comthat there are only seven tents and about 16 protestors on the site.

The Corporation also said that the campers are breaching a byelaw which states that “No person shall without first obtaining or otherwise than in accordance with the terms of a permit from the Council, camp out on any open space.”

“As the best piece of heavily-used urban green space near to the heart of any global metropolis, Hampstead Heath is no stranger to this issue and the byelaws are very clear: no camping. Full stop,” said a spokesperson for the Corporation.

“The new camp has been set up overnight – aiming to reach out to the community to talk about shared concerns. There are currently around 15 tents and more on the way. Spread the word. Urgent help is needed – if you can help or just wish to get involved then bring yourselves, your tents, your books and your ideas,” said Occupy London in a statement on its website.