Occupy UK

News in Brief by John Lindsay

Groups who have dismantled their camps or been evicted from their buildings since the last issue include Edinburgh (14 February); Exeter (10 February); Liverpool (8 February); London’s Bank of Ideas (29 January) and Sheffield (13 February). (Almost all the groups mentioned here have their own websites or Facebook pages.)

Cardiff – Two members of Occupy Cardiff are being prosecuted for public order charges stemming from a demonstration in November. They held a 100-strong march on 7 February, attended by Plaid Cymru Welsh assembly member Bethan Jenkins. The three-day trial for trespass is in June.

Glasgow – The investigation continues into the alleged rape of a 28-year-old woman in a tent located in the group’s former location at Kelvingrove. The group is without a home, but still has regular meetings.

London: Finsbury Square – Camp is going strong.

London: School of Ideas – On 8 February, Occupy took a deserted primary school on Featherstone Rd EC1Y 8RX. Opening hours: Tue-Fri 12noon-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-9pm.

London: St. Paul’s Cathedral – The eviction of the St. Paul’s campsite was imminent as PN went to press.

Norwich – Despite receiving an eviction notice early in February, the camp remained near the Haymarket as PN went to press. The group was in court on 20 February.

Nottingham – In light of recent bad weather, the camp has reportedly been discussing an ‘exit strategy’.

Portsmouth – On 4 February, members of Occupy Portsmouth set up camp outside the Anglican cathedral

Topics: Occupy movement