Luxurious properties in the upscale Notting Hill area of west London have been boarded up in anticipation of the upcoming Notting Hill Carnival, which is set to attract millions of attendees over the weekend.
The Notting Hill Carnival, established in 1966, is a celebration of Caribbean culture, arts, and heritage that involves closing streets across west London for the bank holiday weekend.
While the carnival is known for its vibrant floats and performances, it has also experienced instances of violence and disruption in the past.
In response, some homeowners in the area have taken precautions by boarding up their properties.
Last year’s carnival led to 209 arrests for various offenses including criminal damage, assault, drug possession, and carrying offensive weapons.
Tragically, there was also a fatal stabbing and reports of sexual assaults.
The event’s popularity has led to massive turnouts, with past years drawing up to 2 million people.
This year’s carnival will result in the closure of a significant portion of west London from August 28th to August 30th.
However, due to concerns about the fallout from the event, some residents have expressed fear and unease.
Munian Barakat, a resident originally from Palestine, shared her worries about the carnival’s impact on her property and safety.
Businesses in the area have also taken measures to protect their establishments, investing in boarding up services to secure their premises.
The costs associated with boarding up properties are notable, with one wine bar manager revealing he paid £1,500 for protection.
Additionally, the local council collaborates with artists to decorate the wooden boards with graffiti after they are set up.
As the carnival approaches, the Metropolitan Police have emphasized their increased presence in the Notting Hill area to ensure safety during the event.
They have encouraged attendees to enjoy the festivities responsibly and to seek assistance from officers or stewards if needed.
The police also addressed concerns about potential overcrowding and dangerous situations, referencing a previous incident where a large crowd at the carnival led to a dangerous crush.
In light of past incidents and the potential for overcrowding, there are reminders of the need for safety measures and awareness during the Notting Hill Carnival.
The combination of celebratory atmosphere and large crowds necessitates careful planning and precautions to prevent any unfortunate incidents.
Read More On The Topic On TDPel Media
