30 October 2015

Forsters acts in the eviction of squatters from Kids Company's Urban Academy

Following the liquidation of Kids Company their Urban Academy at a property in SE1 was taken over and secured by the Official Receiver in its capacity as liquidator.

Shortly thereafter around 50 squatters entered the building and put up the usual warning notice stating that they were using it as their home. Emma Gosling of Forsters was instructed by the freeholder owner and liaised with the Official Receiver to agree how best to remove the squatters.

Following the Official Receiver having served a Notice of Disclaimer, proceedings were issued in the County Court for possession. A summary hearing took place within a fortnight and an immediate Order for Possession was obtained. The order was then enforced by High Court enforcement officers the same day.

The claim shows that seeking a summary order for possession as opposed to an interim possession order can still be a quick and efficient process for removing squatters, provided that there is no immediate risk caused by their occupation.

The freehold owner now hopes to re-let the building to another charity working with disadvantaged young people in Inner London to fill the gap left by Kids Company ceasing its operations.

 

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