86% Back Trans-Inclusive Policy at London Swimming Ponds

When 38,000 people speak up about what matters to them, cities should listen—and London just did.

The City of London Corporation announced that Hampstead Heath's historic bathing ponds will continue welcoming transgender swimmers after 86 percent of consultation respondents supported keeping the current trans-inclusive policy. The Kenwood ladies' pond and Highgate men's pond allow trans swimmers to use whichever facility makes them feel most comfortable, alongside a mixed-gender pond option.

For Alex Matheson, director of inclusion at the LGBT Foundation, the decision sends a powerful message. "Places like Hampstead Heath's ponds are valued community spaces where people can feel safe, be with friends and experience the joy of being themselves," she said.

The consultation came after the City reviewed its policy following a Supreme Court ruling in April 2025 about the legal definition of biological sex. Despite pressure from some groups to restrict access based on biology alone, the overwhelming feedback from actual pond users pointed in a different direction.

Regular swimmers told officials how much these spaces mean to them as calm, safe, and welcoming environments. Many described a strong sense of inclusion and belonging that they didn't want to lose.

The Ripple Effect

This decision reaches far beyond three ponds in North London. It demonstrates that when communities are actually consulted, inclusion often wins.

The facility upgrades tell an even more complete story. New private cubicles are being added to toilet and shower facilities, creating more privacy options for everyone who uses the ponds.

Dani St James, chief executive of Not A Phase, highlighted why this matters. "Access to public spaces, leisure facilities and opportunities to connect with nature are important contributors to health, wellbeing and community belonging," she explained. For trans people facing increasing scrutiny in many areas of public life, being able to participate safely and authentically makes a real difference.

Chris Hayward, the City of London Corporation policy chair, emphasized that while the consultation wasn't a referendum, the message from swimmers was clear. "People want these ponds to remain safe, respectful and inclusive," he said.

The decision protects what makes these historic ponds special while ensuring they welcome everyone who needs them.