Hampstead ladies' pond ruling lets trans women continue to swim

A High Court dismissed a challenge to ban trans women from the Hampstead Heath ladies' pond, saying the claim belonged in county court; a City of London consultation found strong public support for the pond's trans-inclusive policy.

A High Court bid to stop trans women using the Hampstead Heath ladies' pond was dismissed, with the judge saying the proper forum for the claim is the county court. The challenge was brought by the campaign group Sex Matters after a Supreme Court ruling about the meaning of "woman" and "sex" in the Equality Act. The pond is marked with a "Women Only" sign and has welcomed trans women for years, according to regular users. A recent City of London consultation involved more than 38,000 people and reported majority support for the pond's trans-inclusive policy. Key facts: - The High Court dismissed the legal bid and said the county court is the appropriate forum for the claim. - The challenge was brought by Sex Matters following the Supreme Court's ruling on the definitions of "woman" and "sex" in the Equality Act. - Mrs Justice Lieven said an individual who says they were discriminated against would be the more appropriate claimant. - Maya Forstater, CEO of Sex Matters, said the group will continue to press its concerns and described the decision as being ruled out on procedural grounds. - A City of London consultation of more than 38,000 people reported broad support for keeping the pond's trans-inclusive arrangements. Summary: The ruling means existing inclusive access to the Hampstead Heath ladies' pond remains in place and reflects majority support in a recent public consultation. Sex Matters has indicated it will continue its campaign, and the judge directed that the proper procedural venue is the county court. Undetermined at this time.