London Socialist Historians Group
20th May
Contact Dr Keith Flett 07803 167266
Primrose Hill restrictions disrespect famous former resident Friedrich Engels
The London Socialist Historians Group, which organises the socialist history seminar at the Institute of Historical Research, has said that efforts to restrict evening access to Primrose Hill park in North London disrespect one of the area’s most famous former residents, Friedrich Engels.
According to reports in May 2021 in the Camden New Journal and the Observer, Keir Starmer, who is the MP for the area, played a central role in getting the Royal Parks, who are responsible for Primrose Hill, to erect temporary 9 foot high gates to stop evening access during pandemic lockdowns.
The move came after complaints from some local residents and Tory Councillors that young people were causing night-time disturbances. Other local residents launched a petition demanding that access to the park is maintained for all.
The Guardian (20th May) has reported that the issue has arisen again with the Royal Parks determined to press ahead and erect permanent gates to prevent night-time access. Its unclear if Keir Starmer has and any further involvement from the report
Engels lived opposite the park for many years until his death in August 1895. There is a plaque at 122 Regents Park Rd where he lived. In 1894 he moved to 41 Regent’s Park Rd as he noted ‘closer to the entrance to the Park’.
London Socialist Historians Convenor Dr Keith Flett said, Keir Starmer, although the local MP, is not thought to be too well up on labour history but free access to Primrose Hill has a long history, which was enjoyed for many years by Engels who walked across the park to visit Marx in Kentish Town. Marx was less keen on the return journey.
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