Finsbury Square Rides the Storm

Storms of an intensity rarely experienced in London ripped through the Occupy site at Finsbury Square two weeks ago. Information, library and tech marquees were flattened by the gale force winds and residential tents were swept away.

The storms struck after weeks of work to transform Finsbury Square into a sustainable, long-term site. Rather than being disheartened by the destruction, occupiers at the site chose to view it as an opportunity. Speaking to the OT, occupier Ed, 28, said:

“It was gutting but the reaction has been brilliant. When the storm hit it was all hands on deck and we pulled the important stuff out of the tents within minutes. The crisis has demonstrated what we can do when we all work together. There’s been a great vibe around the camp ever since and things are running even more smoothly than before! We’re replacing the tents we lost with solid structures built from natural materials.”

Plans are in motion to turn Finsbury Square into an eco-village powered by renewable energy, with solar powered lighting and laptops, a bicycle generator and permaculture gardens all rolling out on the site. The cycle generator will keep residents fit and warm as well as charging phones and 12-volt batteries. Come Spring, the plan is for food to be grown in raised beds and small polytunnels.

Luke, a resident at the camp since its inception, has been crucial in implementing a greener footprint. “We’ve recycled Christmas trees by using the needles to cover pathways and the trunks as building materials,” he said. “Much of the food we eat is given to us by caterers who would otherwise have to throw it away. At Finsbury we’re working to minimise resource use and maximise sustainability. The idea is to create a micro version of what we’d like to see in towns and cities across the country.”

Earlier this month an environmental analyst calculated that the entire St Paul’s site had a carbon footprint of just two domestic houses, while Occupy London has included environmental justice in its common statement. Since the storm, all rebuilding at Finsbury Square has been undertaken with sustainability in mind. Walkways are to be built from reclaimed wood and will prevent erosion of the land beneath (as well as keeping camper’s boots clean!). New structures are being erected, including a geodesic dome which will provide a solid, hygienic kitchen and a circus marquee to be used as a lounge and volunteer centre. As the weather improves, Finsbury Square residents intend to build picnic tables and benches for local workers to be able to join campers for lunchtime discussions.

At present, there are no plans to evict the Finsbury Square occupiers. It would seem that in the current economic climate Islington Council believes funding court cases and evictions would not be the best use of its resources. Campers consult regularly with the council and attempt to maintain good relations with their neighbours. This could be a recipe for longevity.

By Emma Fordham