Ladies' Pond changes spark fears of exclusive spa

Swimmers at Hampstead Heath’s Ladies’ Pond have voiced concerns that recent changes implemented by the City of London Corporation risk transforming the popular bathing spot into an “exclusive health spa for affluent people.” The Kenwood Ladies’ Pond Association (KLPA), a user group dedicated to preserving the pond, has formally written to Alderman Gregory Jones KC, Chair of the Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood, and Queen’s Park Committee, outlining these worries.

In a letter shared with the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the KLPA stated that their predictions from 2020, when compulsory charging was introduced, are now materialising. The association highlighted several restrictive measures, including the refusal to accept season ticket payments in instalments since 2020 and the closure of the phone line previously used for booking sessions. They also noted a failure to establish a promised access fund, despite the KLPA providing evidence to the Corporation in June.

Concerns over discrimination

The KLPA argues that these measures disproportionately affect low-income swimmers and that the move to a cashless system excludes individuals managing on a tight budget. The group also pointed to an instance where the pond was closed due to blue-green algae without prior notice or provision of alternative women-only swimming arrangements. Cumulatively, the KLPA believes these actions raise concerns about indirect, and potentially direct, discrimination based on age, disability, and sex. While low income is not a protected characteristic, the association stressed that the charitable status of Hampstead Heath should warrant consideration and that discrimination remains illegal regardless of the Corporation’s public sector equality duties.

Hampstead Heath features three bathing ponds: Kenwood Ladies’, Highgate Men’s, and a Mixed site. The Ladies’ Pond, established in 1926, is a highly sought-after open-air swimming location. The heath is also currently at the centre of a legal case concerning the Corporation’s trans access policies, with a judicial review expected at the High Court later this year.

Corporation responds

Alderman Jones stated that the safety of facility users is the City of London Corporation’s top priority. He explained that a flexible booking system helps manage ticketing and address anti-social behaviour during peak times. The Corporation offers various concessions, including season tickets and free early morning swims for under-16s and over-60s. Regarding water quality, Alderman Jones emphasised that the Corporation takes it seriously and prioritises safety while minimising disruption, remaining committed to ensuring facilities are safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all.

The Ladies’ Pond is celebrating its centenary this year with an exhibition at Lauderdale House in Highgate, showcasing work by artists who frequent the pond. The exhibition, titled “100 Years Bold in All Weathers,” runs until September 21.