ENVIRONMENTAL protesters aiming to “shut down the city” have arrived in London ahead of expected mass demonstrations aimed at forcing the UK Government to take urgent action on climate change and wildlife declines.
Activists, described as earth marchers, have travelled to the city from various parts of the UK for what is described as an “international rebellion”.
From today, thousands of people will converge on five busy locations in the city, peacefully blocking traffic and creating a “festival” of action including people’s assemblies, performances, talks, workshops and food, campaign group Extinction Rebellion said.
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People will take to the streets at Marble Arch, Oxford Circus, Waterloo Bridge, Piccadilly Circus and Parliament Square in a bid to cause disruption and force the Government to act.
Campaigners said participants would be able to attend training sessions and briefings “to make sure everyone is prepared for the mass civil disobedience to follow”, warning that while the movement is a peaceful one, there is always the possibility of arrest.
Demonstrators were encouraged to camp overnight in Hyde Park into today, when they can “come together, form relationships, consolidate our plans, and gear up for the days ahead”.
But they have been warned they could be breaking the law by setting up camp, as doing so without permission is an offence under Royal Parks legislation.
A spokeswoman for The Royal Parks said Extinction Rebellion had not asked for permission to begin the protest in the park and that camping is not allowed. She said: “We never allow camping in the parks for reasons of safety, security, lack of welfare facilities and the impact it has on the park. It also removes public space from other park visitors.
“Those camping in the parks are breaking the law. Enforcement of the park regulations is a matter for the Metropolitan Police.”
Police said their operational response “would be dependent on what if any other issues might be ongoing at the time”.
Scotland Yard said they have “appropriate policing plans” in place and that officers will be used from across the force “to support the public order operation during the coming weeks”.
They added: “We will always provide a proportionate policing plan to balance the right to a peaceful protest, while ensuring that disruption to communities is kept to a minimum.”
Police advised people to allow extra time for their journey in the event of disruption.
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