UPDATE: The decision to close Primrose Hill for the upcoming New Year’s fireworks has sparked intense backlash online. The Royal Parks announced that the park will be locked from 8 PM on December 30 until 6 AM on January 1, effectively barring access to the popular viewing point for the Mayor of London’s fireworks display.
This year, the closure is set to impact an estimated 30,000 revelers who flocked to the hill last year for its stunning panoramic views of the capital. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the park will be secured with fencing and a notable police presence to prevent public access. Their post on X (formerly Twitter) stated: “Primrose Hill will be closed on New Year’s Eve this year. If you had planned to head there to get a view of the central London fireworks, please make alternative arrangements.”
The backlash was swift, with over 2,300 quote tweets criticizing the decision. Users mocked the closure, comparing it to outdated anti-piracy campaigns, and lamenting the lack of free public spaces to enjoy such events. One user quipped, “This view in Sydney has cost me £0. The UK is f*****,” while another sarcastically noted the resources spent to prevent what many consider a public right.
The closure follows safety concerns that arose after the tragic stabbing of 16-year-old Harry Pitman during last year’s event. His assailant, Areece Lloyd-Hall, was sentenced to a minimum of 16 years in prison. A spokesperson for Royal Parks stated that crowd management capabilities were severely diminished and cited the disbanding of the Royal Parks policing team as a contributing factor.
“Last year, an estimated 30,000 people visited Primrose Hill to view the Mayor of London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display,” the spokesperson explained. “This was not an organized event, and we have limited controls to ensure public safety.”
As the situation develops, officials are urging anyone without a ticket to the fireworks show to seek alternative viewing locations. The Metropolitan Police reiterated that the decision to close the park was made by Royal Parks, clarifying that the police presence last year included over 145 officers, with only 15 from the Royal Parks team.
The public’s reaction underscores a growing frustration with accessibility to city celebrations, sparking discussions about the balance between safety and public enjoyment. Social media users continue to express their dismay, with many calling the closure “depressing” on the last night of the year.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, London’s vibrant atmosphere faces significant changes. The community is left questioning how such decisions affect their right to enjoy public celebrations. The Royal Parks charity has not announced plans for future years, leaving many wondering if this closure marks a permanent shift in how public events will be managed going forward.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
