Met Police Clear Tents Outside London Hospital After Nine Months of Chaos
Tents Turned Trouble at Huntley Street Hospital
On November 10, the Metropolitan Police teamed up with University College London Hospitals and partners to tackle a cluster of around ten tents pitched near the hospital entrance on Huntley Street, NW1. These tents had been standing on private property close to the hospital for nearly nine months, sparking growing concerns.
Complaints Flood In: Drug Use, Abuse, and Intimidation
Hospital security flagged the issue to police, worried for patient safety. Reports included drug use and dealing, public urination and defecation, and instances where hospital staff and patients felt intimidated or verbally abused by rough sleepers and beggars living in the tents.
Official Eviction and Arrest
Partners engaged with everyone on-site on November 6 and 7, warning them that the tents would be cleared on November 10. That day, a Section 35 Dispersal Order was signed off. Two hours before the clearance, all occupants were given time to leave. Almost all complied—some packing up their tents, others leaving them behind. Only one person refused to leave and was promptly arrested for breaking the order.
Tent Removal and Support for the Displaced
Veolia teams removed the abandoned tents after the operation. The arrested individual’s tent and belongings were left untouched, as he had not abandoned them. Recognising the sensitive situation, partner organisations provided support to those affected, balancing public safety with compassion.
This joint action shows a commitment to protecting patients and staff while offering aid to vulnerable individuals struggling in the heart of London.
