The City of London Corporation has launched a consultation on transgender swimmers' access to Hampstead Heath ponds, potentially banning them from using gender-segregated ponds that align with their identity. Currently, trans individuals may swim in the Kenwood Ladies' Pond, Highgate Men's Pond, or the mixed-gender pond.
The consultation presents six options for gender inclusivity, one of which would prohibit trans people from using their preferred segregated pond. This follows a 2018 protest at the men's pond by women wearing fake moustaches and beards, demanding a ban on trans women from the ladies' pond. The Kenwood Ladies' Pond Association rejected a motion last year that only those born female could use the pond.
Pressure increased after the Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that trans women are not legally defined as women. The consultation appears to respond to threatened legal action by campaign group Sex Matters. Its chief executive, Maya Forstater, said the association must change rules after the ruling, arguing that allowing trans women undermines the female-only environment.
Trans swimmers criticised the campaigners as “cruel and judgemental,” noting they have used the ponds for decades without issue. They argued that determining assigned sex at birth is not always straightforward, potentially leading to challenges based on physical characteristics like height or jaw shape.
Chris Hayward, chair of policy at the City of London Corporation, stated: “We recognise the sensitivity surrounding this issue. Our consultation will help ensure that everyone’s voice is heard, and that decisions are made in a fair, respectful and transparent way, in line with the law.” He added that the views received will be considered alongside legal requirements, equality impacts, safeguarding, and practical implementation.
