Squatters evicted from York Barbican site plan protest

They claim they were moved illegally

Squatters want the site on Kent Street to be given back to the public
Author: Liam ArrowsmithPublished 25th Jun 2021
Last updated 25th Jun 2021

A protest has been planned in York after squatters say they were "illegally" removed from a site in Kent Street.

York Student Solidarity Network say unmarked bailiffs arrived this morning and carried them away from the site.

They claim that squatters who were there were injured, calling it an "unacceptable and illegal use of force".

These images were sent to Greatest Hits Radio, showing a protester with an injured neck

The 'Barbican Community Centre' had set itself up on the site around a week ago, to provide an art space and shelter for the homeless.

It was bought around 15 years ago by Persimmon Homes, who were planing to develop 200 flats on the site.

A spokesperson for Persimmon Homes Yorkshire, said: “The illegal trespassers at our Barbican site have been removed this morning in full accordance with well-established legal procedures."

"At our request, police officers were present at all times to monitor the situation. All but one of the trespassers left voluntarily when requested."

"The site has been made secure and we are continuing to review various options for the land’s future.”

Local leaders "shocked"

York Central MP Rachael Maskell says she is "shocked" to see protesters removed from Kent Street.

In a statement, she's questioned the legality of the removal: "I understand that a firm of private bailiffs, were ordered onto the site to evict the protesters without giving due notice, which they are legally bound to do, and have since put up notices on the site, so there is serious question that this company is in breach of the law."

"In speaking to the protesters this morning, I know that their aims chime with many across the city who are struggling to find decent accommodation for them and their families."

Meanwhile, the deputy leader of York City Council Andy D'Agorne has also tweeted to say he is "shocked" to see footage of "peaceful protesters" being removed from the site.

Police investigating assault

North Yorkshire Police have confirmed they were called to the site this morning after "two reports of an assault."

A statement given to Greatest Hits Radio confirms an "incident" is under investigation and that no arrests have been made.

Police also said that the eviction was "not a police matter" and that the force were not involved in the eviction.

Hear all the latest news from across York and North Yorkshire on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.