Overwhelming Public Support for Trans-Inclusive Access at Hampstead Heath Bathing Ponds
An extensive public consultation has revealed that nearly nine out of ten respondents support maintaining trans-inclusive access to the iconic bathing ponds at Hampstead Heath in London. The findings, which emerged from a comprehensive two-month engagement process, demonstrate strong community backing for the current arrangements.
Massive Public Participation
More than 38,000 people participated in the consultation conducted by the City of London Corporation, the registered charity responsible for managing the historic heath. This substantial response rate highlights the significant public interest in the future of these cherished swimming facilities.
The consultation was initiated following a landmark Supreme Court ruling in April, which clarified that the terms "woman" and "sex" within the Equality Act 2010 refer specifically to biological sex. Despite this legal context, the public response has shown remarkable support for inclusive access policies.
Detailed Consultation Findings
Among six different options considered for the Kenwood Ladies' Pond, Highgate Men's Pond, and Hampstead Mixed Pond, the most popular choice received overwhelming endorsement:
- 86% of respondents supported retaining the existing trans-inclusive access arrangements
- 86% opposed introducing strict single-sex access policies
- 90% rejected proposals requiring transgender swimmers to use separate changing facilities or designated swimming sessions
- 66% opposed making all ponds mixed-sex facilities
The consultation revealed that the majority of respondents have personal experience with the ponds, with 84% having swum there previously and 74% living within London.
Current Access Arrangements
Under the present system, biological men and transgender men are permitted to use the men's pond, while biological women and transgender women may access the ladies' pond. These arrangements will remain in place while the City of London Corporation reviews its access rules to ensure they are fair, lawful, and respectful to all users.
Decision-Making Process
The City of London Corporation has emphasised that while the consultation provides valuable insight, it does not constitute a binding referendum. The findings will be presented to corporation committees for careful consideration alongside multiple factors:
- Legal duties and obligations
- Comprehensive equality impact assessments
- Safeguarding responsibilities
- Operational considerations and practical implications
Policy Chairman Chris Hayward commented: "The volume and tone of responses we received demonstrate very clearly just how much the ponds are valued as calm, safe, welcoming community spaces for all to enjoy. While we've been clear that the consultation was not a referendum, carefully reviewing the findings from it will form an important part of our wider decision-making process."
Future Considerations
The Corporation has committed to taking sufficient time to ensure that future access arrangements are evidence-based and respectful to the diverse community of swimmers who use the facilities. A final decision will be communicated to the public in the coming months following thorough deliberation.
Hampstead Heath forms part of the 11,000 acres of open space across London and the southeast that the City Corporation owns and manages, highlighting the significance of this decision for recreational access across the region.
