Early this morning some short term squatters (less than three months) who have been living in a disused commercial building near my flat were evicted by the property owners with police backup. There was no violence, as I understand it.
Area residents knew people were coming/going at the site, but didn't realise people were actually living there. Early this week, the squatters posted a "legal notice" on the hoarding (printed from a website for squatter's rights) laying claim to the space, and stating that "this is now our home, and at least one person is present at all times". Ironically, by trying to protect themselves, the notice drew attention to the fact that they were there, and wheels were set in motion to have them removed.
The police told me that the squatters had set up house, and that there was a 3 piece leather suite, a telly/video recorder, microwave, etc inside the property.
I wasn't happy about them being there, but keep thinking of how cold it is tonight and wonder what's become of them. I do know they were allowed to return to the site to reclaim their possessions....which were sitting on the pavement watched by a policeman when I walked by this afternoon.
What do you think of squatting? Should those who do it be protected legally in any way? Anyone have any personal experience/knowledge of it?