UPDATE: The decision to close Primrose Hill for the upcoming New Year’s fireworks has drawn widespread criticism online as the park will be completely sealed off from 8 PM on December 30 until 6 AM on January 1. The Metropolitan Police announced this move, citing safety concerns after a tragic incident last year that resulted in the murder of 16-year-old Harry Pitman.
The closure prevents access to one of London’s most popular viewing spots for the Mayor of London’s New Year’s fireworks, which attracted around 30,000 revellers last year. In a post on social media platform X, the police stressed the importance of finding alternative viewing locations, stating: “Primrose Hill will be closed on New Year’s Eve this year. There will be fencing, security, and a police presence to prevent access.”
This announcement has sparked a wave of mockery on social media. Users have quote-tweeted the police’s statement over 2,300 times, with many expressing their discontent. One user humorously adapted the early 2000s anti-piracy campaign, declaring: “You wouldn’t watch fireworks from a hill,” while another lamented the cost of viewing fireworks in Sydney, stating, “This view in Sydney has cost me £0. The UK is f*****.”
The decision from the Royal Parks charity follows heightened safety concerns. The charity noted that the ability to manage large crowds would be “severely diminished” this year due to the disbandment of the Royal Parks Operational Command Unit. In a statement, a Royal Parks spokesperson said, “The decision to close Primrose Hill on New Year’s Eve was not taken lightly. Last year an estimated 30,000 people visited Primrose Hill to view the Mayor of London’s New Year’s Eve firework display.”
Despite the backlash, the police reiterated that the closure was a Royal Parks decision. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police clarified, “It is not accurate to suggest the decision was necessary as a result of the disbanding of the Royal Parks policing team.” They emphasized that the team comprised only 15 officers out of more than 145 deployed during last year’s event.
As the New Year approaches, many are left disappointed and frustrated. Prominent figures, including barrister Joanna Susskind-Hardy and actress Frances Barber, have voiced their disapproval on social media, with Barber labeling the closure as “depressing.”
As Londoners prepare for the New Year’s celebrations, they are urged to reconsider their plans. The Metropolitan Police has issued guidance for revellers, emphasizing the need to secure tickets for designated viewing areas to avoid disappointment.
This situation continues to evolve, and many are closely monitoring the public response as New Year’s Eve nears. The controversy raises questions about access to public celebrations and safety measures in urban areas. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
