Hounded out (Oxford)
The Ox-Fly | 11.12.2010 00:00 | Free Spaces | Social Struggles | Oxford
The Fox and Hounds pub has been derelict for four years and Tesco want to build yet another store there. This is a depressing example of the destruction of our communities by an increasingly individualistic society. On 5th December a large group took back the space and started turning it into a social centre.
Article taken from Issue 2 of The Ox-Fly - Oxford's radical newsletter:
http://oxfly.theoarc.org.uk
Article taken from Issue 2 of The Ox-Fly - Oxford's radical newsletter:
http://oxfly.theoarc.org.uk
The place was a horrible mess inside and lots of work was done sorting it out. Frustratingly, after only 12 hours they were evicted by 8 cop cars, vans and attack dogs, even though squatting unused buildings is perfectly legal.
The plan was to use the space to put on community meals, classes, art projects and other events. People visited the locals to discuss this, and called a public meeting for Monday 6th so everyone could decide priorities together. One local was unconvinced but the one thing she did want was a Pilates class - so this was going to be one of the first things organized!
This was such a strong example of direct action that the people involved are determined to keep working to make their social centre a reality.
The plan was to use the space to put on community meals, classes, art projects and other events. People visited the locals to discuss this, and called a public meeting for Monday 6th so everyone could decide priorities together. One local was unconvinced but the one thing she did want was a Pilates class - so this was going to be one of the first things organized!
This was such a strong example of direct action that the people involved are determined to keep working to make their social centre a reality.
The Ox-Fly