Hampstead Heath access rules under review as legal challenge continues

The Hampstead Heath access rules are under renewed scrutiny as the City of London Corporation awaits a court decision on whether a Judicial Review will be allowed to proceed, while separately reviewing its policies following recent legal developments.

The Corporation, which manages Hampstead Heath as a registered charity, confirmed that the High Court has not yet issued a ruling on permission for the Judicial Review. The case relates to the legality of current access arrangements at the north London green space.

A spokesperson said: “The Court has not yet issued a decision on permission for the Judicial Review. We await the outcome and will continue to contest this case vigorously.”

Alongside the legal process, the Corporation has acknowledged the wider sensitivities surrounding the issue and confirmed that a review of the Heath’s access rules is under way. That review follows a recent Supreme Court judgment and updated guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission, both of which have prompted organisations across the country to reassess policies affecting public access and single-sex spaces.

“We recognise the sensitivity and complexity of this issue and await the outcome of the permission hearing,” the spokesperson said. “Like many organisations, we are reviewing our access rules to ensure they remain fair, lawful and respectful in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling and evolving Equality and Human Rights Commission guidance.”

A public consultation on the issue has already been carried out. The Corporation said responses are now being independently analysed and will be published in due course, before elected Members consider the findings and make a final decision.

Until that process is complete, existing arrangements at Hampstead Heath will remain unchanged. Any future decision, the Corporation said, will balance legal obligations with safeguarding responsibilities and the practical realities of managing a site used by millions each year.

“Our priority is to provide a safe and respectful environment for all users,”

the spokesperson added.

Hampstead Heath, one of London’s largest and most heavily used open spaces, attracts swimmers, walkers, families and visitors from across the capital. The outcome of both the court case and the policy review is therefore likely to have implications beyond the Heath itself, as public bodies navigate the legal and social questions raised by the Supreme Court ruling and regulatory guidance, including that published by the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

For more independent reporting on decisions shaping the City of London’s public spaces and civic life, follow EyeOnLondon City. We welcome readers’ views in the comments.

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