The decision to shut the very popular North London lido was driven by ‘poor behaviour on too many evenings recently’, a spokesperson said
More “inappropriate behaviour” has forced Parliament Hill Lido to shut again this summer during a heatwave. Despite sweltering temperatures sweeping London, the outdoor pool in Hampstead Heath was shut on Thursday evening (June 25) and will close again for the session on Friday evening (June 26).
The North London site has experienced multiple anti-social incidents during warm periods of the year so far. An “unacceptable” brawl which saw two people arrested led the Parliament Hill Lido shutting for much of the second May Bank Holiday, while another incident the following week led to all children under 16 who are not accompanied by adults being temporarily banned.
Last week the City of London Corporation, which manages the Heath, put extra security patrols in place but this has failed to deter inappropriate behaviour at the lido.
An email sent out to Parliament Hill Lido users reads: “After careful consideration, we have decided not to run evening sessions on Thursday, June 25 and Friday, June 26. This is in response to inappropriate behaviour by a minority of visitors, and to ensure the health and safety of the swimming community.
“On both days the lido will close at the end of the afternoon and will reopen for the morning session on the following day. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with these arrangements.”
A spokesperson later added the decision was driven by “poor behaviour on too many evenings recently”.
The Parliament Hill Lido Users Group posted on Instagram on Thursday to add the decision has been taken to keep staff and swimmers safe. They wrote: “So so sorry to everyone hoping for an evening swim [on Thursday or Friday].
“Due to poor behaviour on too many evenings recently, the management have taken the decision to CLOSE after the afternoon session today and tomorrow. There will be no evening session on either day.“We know that many of you will be disappointed but for the safety of our staff and customers this decision has been taken. Thankyou for your understanding.”
The City of London Corporation is also looking to crack down on crowds entering two non-swimming ponds during the intense heat.
In late May a video showed dozens of people cooling off in a wildlife pond just 12 days after cygnets had nested. Only the lido and the three bathing ponds are able to be swum in
Alderman Jones told MyLondon: “As well as our own constabulary, we’ve put additional security and patrols in place across the Heath, particularly around the lido and Model Boating Pond.
“Fires and barbecues are strictly prohibited due to the very real risk they pose to people, wildlife, and the wider landscape. We want everyone to enjoy the Heath, so please behave responsibly, and respect the space and those who care for it. Every visitor is also a ‘Heath Guardian’.”
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