High Court Bailiffs and Police Evict Squatters from Mile End Road
In a dawn raid, High Court bailiffs backed by police moved in on a group of homeless squatters occupying two Transport for London properties on Mile End Road. Around 20 people were forced out of the buildings after holding out since the COVID-19 lockdown.
Early Morning Eviction
The eviction team arrived just after 5.30am with a court order in hand. Transport for London had secured a possession order to reclaim their properties, prompting the swift operation.
A notice was pinned to the front door instructing the squatters: “All persons in occupation of the property must vacate the land forthwith.”
Squatters Resist but Leave Peacefully
The occupants, who claimed the owners erred by seeking a possession order instead of an interim possession order, held out against the eviction. Despite this, the bailiffs breached the door using sledgehammers and battering rams.
About 18 people, along with two dogs, eventually left the premises peacefully without incident.
Transport for London Reclaims Properties
The two properties had been occupied since the start of the pandemic lockdown. This operation marks a decisive move by Transport for London to regain control after months of illegal occupation.
The eviction underscores the ongoing challenges of dealing with homeless encampments in London, especially in key public transport-owned buildings.
