Hampstead Heath pond changes restrict low‑income swimmers
Kenwood Ladies’ Pond Association warns new payment and booking rules threaten inclusivity as a High Court review looms
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The Kenwood Ladies’ Pond Association (KLPA) wrote to Alderman Gregory Jones KC, chair of the Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, to flag a series of measures it says limit access to the Heath’s three bathing ponds. The letter, shared with the Local Democracy Reporting Service, was reported by MyLondon.
Restrictive measures introduced
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According to the KLPA, the City of London Corporation stopped accepting season ticket payments in instalments in 2020, a method that previously helped low‑income swimmers afford regular access. The association also notes that the corporation closed the phone line used for offline bookings last year and has moved to a cash‑less payment system, which it says excludes people on tight budgets. MyLondon recorded the association’s claim that these steps could turn the ponds into “an exclusive health‑spa for affluent people”. The corporation’s response, also quoted by MyLondon, was that safety is its top priority and that the flexible booking system helps manage ticketing and deter anti‑social behaviour.
“The safety of people using our facilities is our top priority,” Alderman Jones said.
Gregory Jones KC, Alderman
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The measures are also at the centre of a judicial review brought by the campaign group Sex Matters. The review, scheduled for later in 2026, will examine the corporation’s policies on trans access and the broader inclusivity of the ponds. Both MyLondon and The Standard reported that the High Court will hear the case this year.
Centenary exhibition
The Ladies’ Pond, which opened in 1926, marked its 100th anniversary in 2026 with an exhibition titled “100 Years Bold in All Weathers” at Lauderdale House in Highgate. The exhibition, featuring work by twelve artists, runs until 21 September, as noted by MyLondon.
Questions this report answers
+What new rules have been introduced at the Hampstead Heath bathing ponds?
Since 2020 the City of London Corporation stopped accepting season ticket instalments, closed the phone line for offline bookings last year and introduced a cash‑less payment system. The changes affect how swimmers, especially low‑income users, can pay and book sessions.
+Who raised concerns about these measures and why?
The Kenwood Ladies’ Pond Association wrote to Alderman Gregory Jones KC, saying the measures limit inclusivity and risk turning the ponds into an exclusive health‑spa for affluent people. The group cites impacts on low‑income swimmers and potential discrimination on age, disability and sex.
+What legal action is pending over the corporation’s policies?
Campaign group Sex Matters has filed for a judicial review, which will be heard at the High Court later in 2026. The case will examine the corporation’s policies on trans access and the broader inclusivity of the bathing ponds.
+How is the Ladies’ Pond celebrating its centenary?
The pond’s centenary is marked by the “100 Years Bold in All Weathers” exhibition at Lauderdale House in Highgate. The show, featuring twelve artists, runs until 21 September and highlights the pond’s history and community significance.
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