An update on the encampment outside Hackney Town Hall

More information about the Council's work since the start of the conflict can be found at: https://hackney.gov.uk/israel-and-gaza

After stating their intention to leave, members of the encampment outside Hackney Town Hall have now moved from the site.  

We are now in the process of cleaning the Town Hall Square and carrying out any work needed to return it to its use as a public space. Any remaining belongings will be kept for a period for people to collect. 

A number of homeless people had also been sleeping rough as part of the encampment in the Town Hall Square. Council outreach staff have been in contact with them to offer support and assistance, including providing advice about getting access to housing services either in Hackney through the Greenhouse Homeless Hub or linking them back to their borough where appropriate.

In Hackney we support peaceful protest and are committed to ensuring that a range of voices are heard. As a Council, we are committed to peace and earlier this year called on the Government to do everything in its power to bring about a ceasefire.

We recognise that many in our communities have been personally affected by the ongoing crisis in Israel and Gaza, which has caused immense distress, fear and anger among Hackney residents. Our horror at the loss of life and the far-reaching impact of the conflict remains undiminished. 

We will continue to engage with local residents and community representatives, do all we can to maintain cohesion, and ensure that Hackney is no place for hate.

Caroline Woodley, Mayor of Hackney