The tide may finally be turning in Putney’s escalating squatter crisis, as one landlord has successfully reclaimed his properties through direct action and another has started legal proceedings, even as occupation continues in other locations across the High Street and surrounding areas.
In a dramatic development, the property owner of Simmons bar successfully regained possession of their building through direct confrontation with squatters. According to Nicola Grant of Positively Putney, the landlord “brazenly entered and asked the squatters to leave” and successfully gained control back.
The landlord had informed police of his plan beforehand, with officers positioned nearby in case assistance was required. While the approach carries legal risks for property owners, it demonstrates the growing frustration with lengthy court processes that can take months to complete.
The reclaimed property has now been secured with new locks, as confirmed by a site visit yesterday afternoon.
Crown Estate takes legal action
Crown Properties, owners of the former Ramna restaurant building on Putney Bridge Road, are believed to have initiated formal court proceedings after being alerted to the squatter occupation.
The block of shops that have been shuttered for years on Putney Bridge Road are now advertising that live-in Guardians are in place, adopting the preventative strategy that other landlords have used successfully to deter squatter occupation.
The battle for control has moved beyond the High Street frontages. A K9 security unit is currently stationed at the rear of properties on Putney Bridge Road, with a security guard reporting regular surveillance of potential squatter activity.
The guard, accompanied by Mina, an adorable looking German Shepherd mix, described seeing “several people at the back of the Ramna property” who “swiftly returned inside” when confronted with the security dog. The presence of professional security demonstrates the escalating costs that property owners are now willing to bear to protect their assets.
Mixed progress across target properties
While some landlords have successfully secured their buildings, the picture across Putney remains mixed:
Secured Properties:
- Lilya Art Gallery – confirmed secure by landlord
- ‘Levellers Court’ vacant units on Putney Bridge Road – confirmed secure
- Lost Society – listing agent now aware and engaged with the issue
Ongoing Concerns:
- Former Be At One premises – no response from landlord yet
- Rumble Jungle site above Lidl – unclear status with changing handwritten notices and lights remaining on
The former crazy golf course presents a particular puzzle, with notices alternating between “Security onsite” and “Day Officer” with different telephone numbers, suggesting either legitimate security arrangements or an attempt by squatters to appear so.
Community coordination proves effective
The varied outcomes demonstrate the crucial role that community awareness and rapid landlord notification can play. Properties with engaged owners who respond quickly to alerts have remained secure or been successfully reclaimed, while those with absent or unresponsive landlords continue to face occupation.
While individual landlords and the Business Improvement District have mobilised resources, Wandsworth Council has yet to respond to calls for coordinated action using its existing enforcement powers.
Local police have demonstrated willingness to support legitimate property owners, positioning officers nearby during the successful reclamation and investigating criminal damage reports. However, the fundamental limitation remains: commercial property squatting is not a criminal offense, leaving removal as a civil matter between landlords and occupants.
The situation remains fluid, with developments expected daily as both sides adapt their tactics in what has become an ongoing battle for control of Putney’s vacant commercial properties.
