A wave of public support has emerged in defence of trans inclusion at Hampstead Heath’s iconic Ladies’ Pond, following renewed pressure from anti-trans campaign group Sex Matters to restrict access to “biological women” only.

The City of London Corporation, which manages the Heath’s bathing ponds, recently confirmed it is reviewing its gender access policies in light of a controversial Supreme Court ruling earlier this year. However, it has reaffirmed that trans women remain welcome at the Ladies’ Pond during the review process.

Sex Matters, a group advocating for single-sex spaces, has called on the Corporation to exclude trans women from the pond, claiming the current policy misinterprets the Equality Act 2010. In response, the Corporation stated that its services must not discriminate against individuals with the protected characteristic of gender reassignment, and that trans women have long been permitted to use the facility.

The backlash to Sex Matters’ campaign has been swift and vocal. LGBTQ+ rights groups, local residents, and allies have taken to social media and community forums to express solidarity with trans swimmers. Many have praised the Corporation’s inclusive stance and condemned attempts to roll back hard-won rights.

“I’ve swum at the Ladies’ Pond for years,” said one local resident. “It’s always been a place of peace and acceptance. Trans women are women, and they belong here just as much as anyone else.”

Pam Eland of Pride in North London added: “This isn’t just about swimming - it’s about dignity, safety, and the right to exist in public spaces. Trans people deserve to feel welcome and respected, especially in places that have historically been sanctuaries.”

The Kenwood Ladies’ Pond Association (KLPA), which represents regular users of the pond, voted in 2024 to uphold the inclusive policy, rejecting a motion that would have redefined “woman” to exclude trans individuals.

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Graham Robson
Graham Robson

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