Three months into Putney’s ongoing squatter crisis, the situation shows little sign of resolution as occupiers remain entrenched in multiple High Street properties while legitimate businesses struggle to maintain operations.
Squatter Strongholds Persist
The most significant occupation continues at the former Ramna restaurant block, where squatters control the old restaurant space and three flats above it. Developer Crown Properties is pursuing legal action through the courts to regain access, but the process is moving slowly. The developer, which already holds planning permission for a hotel and retail complex to replace the entire block, had previously mothballed the ambitious redevelopment plans.
Only Preto Brazilian restaurant remains operational in the affected block, with other businesses forced to close their doors. In a potential relief for the squatters, the K9 security unit that had been stationed at the rear of the block has been withdrawn, reducing official pressure on the occupation.
Above the Lidl store, squatters maintain control of the abandoned Rumble Jungle premises. In a brazen display of organisation, they regularly update contact telephone numbers posted on the front door, accompanied by notes claiming “Security on site” in an apparent attempt to fool locals in not noticing their presence.
Silent Occupation at Lost Society
At the opposite end of the High Street, the former Lost Society bar remains under squatter control, though occupiers have adopted a notably quieter approach. Local sources suggest this tactical shift stems from awareness that noise complaints could trigger enforcement action.
Evidence seen by Putney.news and confirmed to be in police possession shows the squatters gained entry by scaling the wall from Norroy Road and drilling out the back door lock. Despite this apparent breaking and entering, no arrests have been made, fuelling growing frustration among local residents and business owners.
The squatters have posted their own contact details on the High Street side of the building, offering to negotiate with the property’s landlord. Occasional sightings of people entering and leaving the premises are the only signs of occupation in an area already dotted with boarded-up properties.
New Ventures Emerge
Amid the squatter drama, legitimate business activity continues. The former Barclays Bank building is being transformed into a children’s store by Tiny Feet, though work hit a brief snag this week when the owner, who is working onsite, suffered a neck injury. Police presence at the site – presumably to prevent opportunistic squatter activity – dissipated after several hours, and renovation work has resumed with a co-worker despite his ongoing discomfort.
On Lower Richmond Road, Hudson’s restaurant space is undergoing its third major renovation in three years, this time preparing for a new Indian restaurant, Raaz. The familiar sight of a construction skip occupies the outdoor seating area, while the building’s exterior has been painted a striking blue. Opening is expected in a few months.
Restaurant Reshuffles
Upper Richmond Road is seeing significant changes in its dining scene. Hare and Tortoise is abandoning its current location at lease-end, relocating just a few doors down to focus exclusively on takeaway service. The move addresses long-standing questions about why the restaurant never adapted its interior design after pandemic restrictions forced it toward delivery service, maintaining an unwelcoming takeout aesthetic despite serving quality food that matches the upscale presentation of other Hare and Tortoise locations across London.
Across the street, a plant shop has closed and begun seeking new tenants. A neighbouring space that has cycled through multiple concepts – restaurant, coffee shop, supermarket – is preparing for another restaurant iteration, this time featuring Chinese cuisine.
High Street Loses Its Sparkle
The nightlife scene has taken a notable hit with the closure of both Simmons and Be At One cocktail bars, located next to each other. Their darkened storefronts create a particularly dispiriting sight after dark and have noticeably reduced the energy and foot traffic that once characterized this section of the High Street. And nearby Putney Bridge Road also has two additional vacancies.
As Putney’s commercial district continues to navigate the twin challenges of squatter occupations and post-pandemic business pressures, the contrast between legitimate enterprises fighting for survival and illegal occupiers operating with apparent impunity has become increasingly stark. With court proceedings ongoing and new businesses preparing to open, the coming months will likely determine whether the High Street can reclaim its former vitality or slide further into decline.
