High Court Blocks Challenge to Trans-Inclusive Access at Hampstead Ponds
LONDON, 29 January 2026 – A High Court judge has refused permission for a legal challenge against the trans-inclusive access policy at Hampstead Heath’s famous bathing ponds. The ruling comes as the City of London Corporation publishes the results of a major public consultation, which found overwhelming support for maintaining the ponds as inclusive spaces.
Court Rejects Legal Challenge
The charity Sex Matters sought to bring a judicial review against the City of London Corporation’s policy, which allows transgender people to use the single-sex facilities that correspond with their gender identity. On Wednesday 28 January 2026, the High Court ruled that the case could not proceed, effectively blocking the challenge. The Corporation welcomed the decision, stating it sided with the thousands of swimmers who use and support the ponds.
Public Consultation Shows Strong Support
In a separate but closely related development, the results of a public consultation on the future of the ponds have been published. More than 38,000 people responded, with 86% – nearly nine out of ten – stating they felt the ponds should remain trans-inclusive spaces. The consultation will directly inform an updated access policy for the historic swimming facilities.
Key Facts & Current Policy
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Court Ruling | High Court refused permission for judicial review brought by Sex Matters. |
| Consultation Response | Over 38,000 participants; 86% backed trans-inclusive access. |
| Current Access Policy | Transgender men and biological men may use the Men’s Pond. Transgender women and biological women may use the Ladies’ Pond. |
| Governing Body | City of London Corporation (manages Hampstead Heath). |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the legal challenge about?
The charity Sex Matters sought a judicial review of the City of London Corporation’s policy on trans access to the single-sex bathing ponds on Hampstead Heath. The High Court has refused them permission to bring the case, meaning it will not go to a full hearing.
What do the consultation results mean?
The results of the large-scale public consultation are not legally binding but are highly influential. They provide a clear mandate from the ponds’ users and the wider public for the Corporation to maintain its inclusive approach when formally updating its access policy.
Can the policy still change?
While the High Court ruling is a significant setback for opponents of the policy, the City of London Corporation has stated it will use the consultation results to inform an “updated access policy.” The strong public support suggests any future changes are likely to reinforce, not restrict, inclusive access.