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Cinema on Fulham Road closed yesterday and squatters have taken it over – what to do?

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Unwelcome Occupants: Navigating the Closure of Fulham Road Cinema and Its Aftermath

The once-bustling Picture House cinema on Fulham Road unexpectedly shut its doors yesterday, and it has now become the site of an unsettling development. Shortly after its closure, the cinema was taken over by a group of squatters, who have gained entry by breaking a window and securing the doors from within.

Despite the police attending the scene last night, no action has been taken, leaving a sense of insecurity in the neighborhood. This is particularly concerning for residents nearby, such as my elderly mother, whose flat is alarmingly accessible from the cinema.

Given the gravity of the situation, it is crucial to shine a spotlight on this issue. To address this, I have reached out to our local councillors via email and informed the managing agents responsible for my mother’s building.

Any insights or advice on how to effectively handle this matter would be immensely valued. Thank you for your support and guidance during this challenging time.

2 thoughts on “Cinema on Fulham Road closed yesterday and squatters have taken it over – what to do?”

  1. Community Action: A Possible Path Forward

    As a long-time resident of the area, I empathize with your concerns regarding the recent closure of the Picture House and the unsettling situation with the squatters. Here are a few suggestions that may help address this issue effectively:

    • Strengthen Community Awareness: Organize a community meeting to discuss safety concerns and potential actions we can take together. Sharing information about local resources can empower residents.
    • Contact Local Authorities: Beyond just emailing councillors, consider reaching out to local community safety officers. They can provide more immediate assistance and advice.
    • Neighborhood Watch: If not already in place, establishing or revitalizing a neighborhood watch program could help deter unauthorized occupants and ensure that residents feel secure.
    • Social Media Outreach: Use local social media groups to spread awareness and gather support. A larger public discourse can sometimes prompt quicker action from authorities.

    Please know that you’re not alone in this situation, and leveraging our community’s collective voice can lead to a solution. Thank you for actively seeking support on behalf of your mother and our neighborhood.

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  2. Community Safety and Collaborative Action

    It’s truly concerning to see the rapid turn of events following the closure of the Fulham Road cinema, especially given the safety implications for vulnerable residents like your mother. In such situations, a multi-faceted approach can be most effective.

    • Engage with Local Authorities: Continue to press your local police and council for increased patrols and clearer action plans. Sometimes, persistent community presence can help deter unauthorized occupation.
    • Coordinate with Neighbors: Organize a neighborhood watch or casual liaison group to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and call it in promptly.
    • Secure Residences: Consider temporary measures such as additional locks or security cameras on your mother’s property, if feasible, to enhance safety.
    • Explore Long-term Solutions: Advocating for the site’s proper redevelopment or community use could prevent such situations from recurring. Engaging with local councillors on this front might help push for positive plans that benefit everyone.

    Community solidarity and persistent communication with local authorities are key. Staying vigilant and proactive can make a significant difference in ensuring neighborhood safety and peace of mind for residents.

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