Primrose Hill, a north London park that has seen two fatal stabbings in three years, will close for Bonfire Night and New Year's Eve amid public safety concerns. The Royal Parks, the charity managing the green space, will lock the park nightly for 11 days during the fireworks period, from October 30 to November 9, between 10pm and 6am. It will also close on December 30 at 8pm and reopen at 6am on January 1.
Safety Fears Following Fatal Incidents
The decision follows two fatal stabbings at the popular fireworks viewing spot. In 2023, 16-year-old Harry Pitman from Tottenham was fatally stabbed during a fight while watching the Mayor of London's firework display from the hill. More recently, in April, 21-year-old film student Finbar Sullivan was stabbed and killed on Primrose Hill.
Since Pitman's death, the park has been closed to the public on New Year's Eve. The Royal Parks has now extended closures to cover the Bonfire Night period, citing limited control over large gatherings in open parkland.
Royal Parks' Statement on Closures
A spokesperson for The Royal Parks said: "The safety of all park visitors is our priority. Closing the park over the Bonfire Night period and on New Year's Eve is not a decision we take lightly. We know that in the past large numbers have gathered in the park to celebrate these occasions. These are not organised events, they are gatherings in open parkland and we have limited controls that we can deploy to ensure public safety. Closing Primrose Hill overnight is the only responsible course of action."
Regulations and Enforcement
The Royal Parks reminded visitors that organising large gatherings without permission and setting off fireworks or lanterns breaches regulations enforced by the Metropolitan Police. The closures aim to prevent further incidents and ensure public safety during peak celebration periods.
