UK: Disruptions possible at London Heathrow airport due to protests April 19 /update 2

Event

The environmentalist activist group Extinction Rebellion (ER) is expected to stage further demonstrations in London until at least Monday, April 29. Further protests have been called for Friday April 19, with protesters threatening to target London Heathrow airport (LHR) in an attempt to escalate their protest actions. The police have warned they will take forceful action if protesters attempt to disrupt operations at LHR. Disruptions, including congestion and delays, are possible in the coming hours at LHR.

In line with protests on previous days, activists are likely to gather in Central London, notably at Marble Arch, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, and Waterloo Bridge, despite police orders to restrict protest action to Marble Arch until April 19. A heightened security presence along with significant traffic disruptions are expected around demonstration sites.

The group has called for open-ended demonstrations; as such, protests are likely to continue in the coming days. 

Context

Related gatherings took place in Central London on April 15-18, which have led to road closures, significant traffic congestion, and severe disruptions to public transportation and local businesses. At least 500 activists have been arrested. The ER is calling on the government to reduce carbon emissions to zero by 2025 and want to "shut down London" until at least April 29 in a series of protests.

Advice

Individuals located in London are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, prepare for extra time to reach their destinations, and anticipate possible disruptions if travelling via LHR.