Council cracks down on illegal events in parks

29 June 2020

Southwark Council is working with police to crack down on illegal music events and promoted ‘parties’ in the borough’s parks and open spaces.

The good weather and lifting of some lockdown restrictions has meant the borough’s parks have been even more popular than normal this summer. But some irresponsible individuals have been putting people at risk by organising unlicensed music events (UMEs) or outdoor ‘parties’ and promoting them via social media.

Cllr Evelyn Akoto, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, said: “We don’t want to stop people enjoying themselves and the wonderful weather we have been having, but it is essential people gather sensibly, safely and without breaking the law. Our parks and open spaces should be places everyone can enjoy and feel safe in and we will not tolerate any actions that threaten people’s safety.

“Although restrictions are easing it is important to remember we are still in lockdown and people should be following the government guidance and not attending mass gatherings. Even without the threat of COVID-19, these events are illegal for a reason. There is no security, no regulation and organisers are putting those attending at serious risk of injury, as well as causing misery for neighbouring families.

“Wardens are patrolling parks and will be reporting any signs of an event like this being set up. If anyone is visiting one of our parks and sees an event taking place we strongly encourage them to go home and report it to the police.

“As a council we can, and will, take appropriate action to penalise anyone found to be organising illegal events in our parks or open spaces.”

Anyone who wants to report a potential mass gathering/party/events being set up can call the police on 101 – or in an emergency call 999.

Page last updated: 29 June 2020