UPDATE: Three police officers visited the squatters around 9.30am and informed them they need to leave by 6pm, otherwise they will get a dispersal order.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are responding to the appearance of a makeshift encampment on Olivette Street in Putney, after squatters were evicted from two nearby shops yesterday.
In a statement sent this morning, Inspector Steve Burke of the Putney Neighbourhood Policing Team said officers had been made aware overnight of a “tented community” now occupying part of the narrow residential street, just off Lacy Road.
“We understand that the occupants of the tents were yesterday evicted from a squat in nearby Lacy Road,” he said, referring to the former Kashmir restaurant, one of two shops cleared by police and bailiffs on Thursday in a high-profile operation. The other was the Boilermaker cocktail bar on Putney High Street.
Photos taken by Putney.News yesterday showed multiple tents, tarpaulins, and piles of personal possessions covering large parts of the pavement on Olivette Street, with at least one visibly agitated man shouting at passers-by. The impromptu encampment sits just metres from residential front doors and children’s play areas.
Inspector Burke said that local Thamesfield officers would attend the site this morning “to liaise with the group and establish their intentions.”
He added that a joint meeting between police and Wandsworth Council officials was being organised today “to establish a plan of action.”
“Please be assured that we are aware of the situation and are taking proactive steps to deal with the matter,” Burke wrote. Residents are being encouraged to report any specific concerns directly to the neighbourhood team.
The appearance of the tents came just hours after both properties were forcibly secured — Kashmir behind metal shutters, and Boilermaker with plywood boards — to prevent further occupation. Private security guards remain on site at both locations amid fears the squatters could return or move on to other vacant premises.
Local residents have expressed unease at the growing encampment, with some reporting it via the Met’s priority survey for antisocial behaviour. The police note that such behaviour can take many forms and may require coordination with multiple agencies to resolve.
The Met is encouraging residents to report incidents or concerns online at www.met.police.uk, via web chat, or by calling 101. Reports can also be made anonymously via Crimestoppers.
As of this morning, the tents remain in place. Wandsworth Council has not yet issued a public statement.
