Supreme Court ruling ‘considered’ over Ladies’ Pond trans access

The organisation that manages Hampstead Heath said it was “carefully considering” a Supreme Court judgement which could impact transgender women’s access to the Ladies’ Pond.

The City of London Corporation said it was reviewing the decision and remained committed to providing “a safe and enjoyable environment for all”.

In a landmark judgement, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the 2010 Equality Act “refer to a biological woman and biological sex” rather than “certificated sex”.

The Kenwood Ladies’ Pond Association (KLPA), a volunteer-led organisation that promotes the interests of the north London pond, said the subject should be “handled with sensitivity”.

The group last year rejected a motion proposing that “only those born female in sex can use the pond”.

Last week’s Supreme Court ruling has led to organisations including the NHS reviewing their guidance on single-sex spaces such as changing rooms and toilets.

The City of London Corporation said it was “carefully considering” the Supreme Court judgement, adding: “We remain committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all.”

KLPA said in a statement that all parties concerned must think before making any statements.

“Individuals will have their own views about the Supreme Court ruling,” the statement continued.

“The Ladies’ Pond is open to all women and girls over the age of eight and, according to the lifeguards, trans women have been swimming there for many years without incident.

“The Ladies’ Pond is well staffed by lifeguards and stewards who are there to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all users.

“As the KLPA is not responsible for managing the pond, including defining who is allowed to access the pond, it is unlikely that the Supreme Court ruling is relevant to the KLPA’s existence or activities.”

City of London Corporation manages eight green spaces including the heath.

There are three swimming ponds on the heath, the others are a men’s pond and a mixed pond.