A ban on protests outside the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) clinic in South West London is set to be extended until 2028. The buffer zone around the clinic on Rosslyn Road in Twickenham was first implemented in 2019 to prevent protesting, interfering with, intimidating, or harassing clients and staff of the clinic. Additionally, recording or photographing clients and staff within the buffer zone, as well as displaying text or images related to abortion, are also prohibited.
Richmond Council’s regulatory committee approved plans to extend the public spaces protection order (PSPO), which enforces the buffer zone, for another three years beyond the current ban’s expiration in March. Despite buffer zones being established around all abortion clinics in England and Wales from October 31, the council decided to continue with the extension around the BPAS Richmond clinic due to behaviors that may not be addressed by the government’s legislation.
The buffer zone covers several surrounding roads and was initially introduced in 2019 in response to protests and vigils from pro-life groups that were causing distress and harassment to clinic visitors, residents, and staff. Testimonies from patients revealed the negative impact of the protests, with individuals feeling intimidated, scared, and upset by the actions of protestors.
Since the implementation of the buffer zone, there have been no known breaches of the restrictions or complaints to the council. A consultation conducted by the council showed overwhelming support for extending the PSPO, with 97% of respondents in favor of the move. The council believes that the PSPO has been effective in deterring unwanted behavior and improving the ability to address issues observed by officers.
The decision to extend the PSPO was made by the committee, and the council will finalize the plans before March. The extension of the buffer zone aims to protect the clients, staff, and visitors of the clinic from harassment and intimidation, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all individuals accessing reproductive healthcare services.
