A group of squatters have occupied the Grade II-listed York & Albany hotel and gastropub, which is owned by Gordon Ramsay Holdings International Limited (GRHI), and have put up a “legal warning” defending their presence. GRHI secured a High Court order for possession of the premises on Thursday, but on Saturday, court orders taped to the doors of the building had been torn down and at least one of the squatters said the group had “made a deal” and would be staying. It is unclear how many people remain inside the building.
Some of the squatters had pledged to serve free food to the local community and set up the since-closed Camden Art Cafe in the building. Initially, some of the squatters said they would comply with the High Court order, which led to a steady stream of people leaving on Friday. However, a number are said to have since returned.
“We’re still here and we’re going to carry on staying here. We’re going to be security for him [the owner of the pub],” said one of the people squatting. Banners which had been draped from the balcony reading “whatever they say, squatters will stay” and “squat the lot” have been removed by the occupants. The former pub and hotel building is up for sale for £13m following a lengthy legal battle between Ramsay and film director Gary Love.
Eve Watson and PA Media reported on the story for BBC News
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