We have received a further update from the City of London Corporation. Water quality test results received today remain unsatisfactory, although the levels of E.coli and Enterococci are beginning to reduce. The situation will be reviewed again on Monday 19 July 2021 and the bathing ponds will remain closed in the meantime.
Swimmers who had booked tickets to swim at the ponds up to 18 July 2021 may use these at Parliament Hill Lido. You are asked to attend as close as possible to the time booked, although the time slots offered at the Lido differ somewhat from those at the ponds. Refunds can also be requested via Eventbrite. Further bookings on Eventbrite for the bathing ponds are suspended for the week commencing 19 July 2021. If you are having any difficulty accessing a swim at the Lido or getting a refund please contact HH-Swimming@cityoflondon.gov.uk.
The City of London Hampstead Heath twitter feed has now been updated.
Recent local press coverage of the flooding and contamination on the Heath can be seen here (CNJ letters) and here (Ham & High).
In the midst of all of the bad news of pond contamination, there is some positive news. The large meadow at the Ladies’ Pond is now open to access, free of charge and no booking needed, for women and girls. The nearest available toilets will be in Millfield Lane. Whilst swimming will not be available, this space is open for sunbathing, snoozing and contemplation. This access has been negotiated by the KLPA with Heath operational managers.