Londoners are facing a new challenge in public spaces as 'hostile greenery' sweeps the city, with planters and other objects being used to displace rough sleepers. Outside The Heals Building on Tottenham Court Road, around 25 people have made their beds for the night for years, but recently planters have been placed where tents once stood, partially sheltered from the elements. This trend, dubbed 'hostile greenery' by Streets Kitchen, is seen as a deceptive form of anti-homeless architecture.
Community Response and Relationships
Tony Long, a former Michelin-star chef who has slept outside the store since 2018 after a breakdown, noted the rare community bond formed with the camp. The group received one day's warning, considered generous compared to other places. Heal's staff brought hot drinks and helped with outreach, while litter pickers and Costa Coffee workers also formed friendly relationships with the rough sleepers. Tony emphasized the importance of regular contact for mental health and safety.
Heal's Statement on Planters
Heal's told Metro: 'We understand that it is a complex and sensitive issue, and we approach it with care and compassion. The introduction of planters is not intended to ignore this challenge, but to balance the needs of our customers, tenants, and the wider community.'
Widespread Hostile Greenery
A walk around Tottenham Court Road reveals many former camps replaced by innocuous objects. Deep black plant pots cover a former tent spot across the road. Outside University College Hospital, bike racks sit where tents were removed and crushed in 2023, but the racks are boarded behind metal barriers. Near an ambulance bay, shelters for dustbins have been erected, forcing tents to move on.
UCLH Spokesperson's Comments
A UCLH spokesperson said: 'As part of our commitment to sustainability, we actively encourage staff and patients to make less carbon-emitting journeys. The addition of bicycle racks is one of several initiatives. We hope to complete this work and remove the fencing soon. We are deeply committed to improving the health and wellbeing of rough sleepers and provide services for this population. We acknowledge the challenges of balancing welfare with the interests of our patients and staff.'
