Hampstead Heath Ponds Consultation Shows Strong Support for Trans-Inclusive Access
A significant public consultation regarding the access policy at Hampstead Heath's famous bathing ponds has revealed overwhelming support for maintaining the current trans-inclusive arrangements. The review was initiated following a landmark Supreme Court ruling in April, which clarified definitions within the Equality Act 2010.
Consultation Results and Public Opinion
The City of London Corporation, which manages the Heath, launched the consultation to reassess rules after legal scrutiny. Of the six options presented for the Kenwood Ladies' Pond, Highgate Men's Pond, and the mixed Hampstead Pond, the most popular choice was retaining the existing policy. This option garnered support from a substantial 86 per cent of the 38,000 respondents.
Currently, biological women and transgender women are permitted to use the ladies' pond, while men and transgender men may use the men's pond. The consultation found that 90 per cent of people surveyed rejected proposals that would require trans swimmers to use separate changing facilities or have segregated swimming sessions. Furthermore, 66 per cent of respondents opposed making all ponds mixed-sex, indicating a preference for the current gendered, but trans-inclusive, model.
Years of Tension and Protest
The policy has been a source of protracted debate and protest among swimmers and campaigners. Some women's rights groups have demanded a return to strict biological sex-based segregation, arguing that the current system undermines women's rights to privacy and dignity.
Protests have included demonstrations where campaigners, donning fake beards and moustaches, attempted to enter the men's pond. In May, around 30 women chanted slogans and tried to enter the male-only space in defiance of the rules, claiming to self-identify as male. The campaign group Sex Matters has even threatened legal action over the issue, escalating the row further.
Arguments from Trans Swimmers and Allies
In contrast, trans swimmers and their supporters argue they have used the ponds peacefully for decades. They describe the push for exclusion as 'cruel and judgemental'. Advocates also warn that restrictive rules could have unintended consequences, potentially forcing trans men—who may have facial hair and masculine features—into the women's pond, which could lead to humiliating and distressing confrontations for all involved.
Next Steps and Corporation Statement
The City of London Corporation stated it is carefully reviewing the consultation findings to ensure future access rules are fair, lawful, and respectful. The results will be presented to corporation committees, which will consider them alongside legal duties, equality impact assessments, safeguarding responsibilities, and operational considerations before reaching a final decision.
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.' He emphasised that while the consultation was not a referendum, its findings are a crucial part of the decision-making process. A clear communication of the outcome is expected in the coming months.
In the interim, the current admission rules will remain in place. The consultation revealed that 84 per cent of respondents had swum at the bathing ponds, and 74 per cent were London residents, underscoring the local significance of this issue. Hampstead Heath forms part of the extensive open spaces managed by the City Corporation across London and the South East.
