Police have announced plans to manage two protests due to take place in Islington on Saturday (2 August), one opposing the use of a hotel to accommodate asylum seekers and a counter protest in response.
The protest against the Thistle Barbican Hotel, organised under the banner ‘Thistle Barbican needs to go – locals say no’, was initially set up by local residents but has since gained support from groups outside the area.
A counter protest has also been organised by Stand Up To Racism and is expected to draw in a number of other groups.
Chief Superintendent Clair Haynes, who is leading the policing operation, said: “We have been in discussions with the organisers of both protests in recent days, building on the ongoing engagement between local officers, community groups and partners. We understand that there are strongly held views on all sides.
“Our officers will police without fear or favour, ensuring those exercising their right to protest can do so safely but intervening at the first sign of actions that cross the line into criminality.
“We have used our powers under the Public Order Act to put conditions in place to prevent serious disorder and to minimise serious disruption to the lives of people and businesses in the local community. Those conditions identify two distinct protest areas where the protests must take place meaning the groups will be separated but still within sight and sound of each other. The conditions also set specific start and finish times for the protests.”
The Met confirmed that the protest against the Thistle Barbican must take place in King Charles Square between 1pm and 4pm.
The counter protest, organised by Stand Up To Racism and other groups, must take place in Lever Street, near the junction with Central Street, between 12pm and 4pm.
Police also said they have plans in place for any further protest activity near other London hotels being used to house asylum seekers.
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