UPDATE: The closure of Primrose Hill in Camden for the New Year’s Eve fireworks has sparked widespread derision online. Royal Parks announced on December 30 that the park will be completely sealed off until 6 AM on January 1, 2024, leaving thousands of would-be spectators without one of London’s most popular free viewing spots.
The decision follows safety concerns stemming from last year’s tragedy, where Harry Pitman, a 16-year-old, was fatally stabbed during the fireworks display. In light of this, The Metropolitan Police confirmed the area will be secured with fencing, security, and a police presence, urging anyone planning to watch the fireworks to seek alternative arrangements.
On social media, the backlash has been intense. The announcement was met with over 2,300 quote tweets, with users mocking the motives behind the closure. One user humorously altered a famous anti-piracy meme, stating: “You wouldn’t watch fireworks from a hill.” Another user compared the situation to Sydney’s free fireworks display, lamenting, “This view in Sydney has cost me £0. The UK is f*****.”
Royal Parks emphasized that the closure was not taken lightly. A spokesperson noted that last year, approximately 30,000 people attended the event at Primrose Hill, which lacked formal organization and crowd control measures. The statement read: “We have limited controls that we can deploy to ensure public safety. Therefore, we have decided to close and lock Primrose Hill from 8 PM on December 30 until January 1.”
Despite the backlash, The Metropolitan Police reiterated that the decision was made by Royal Parks, clarifying that the disbanding of the Royal Parks policing team was not a factor. Officers from that team comprised only a small fraction of the total police presence deployed last year.
The public outcry continued as prominent figures weighed in. Actress Frances Barber shared her dismay on social media, stating, “How depressing is this on NYE.” Meanwhile, barrister Joanna Susskind-Hardy quipped, “Good morning to everyone except the Fun Police.”
As the clock ticks down to midnight, Londoners are left to grapple with the fallout from this controversial decision. With many now seeking alternative locations to ring in the New Year, the impact of this closure is felt city-wide.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
