Extinction Rebellion plans protest at Windsor Castle

Extinction Rebellion (XR) is planning to occupy Windsor Castle for three days of mass protest across the royal grounds, it can be revealed.

- RACHEL HAGAN

Climate activists are expected to march en masse down The Long Walk, the two-mile-long avenue leading up to the castle, on Friday 30 August, in an occupation dubbed “Upgrade Democracy”.

The plan, which police say they are aware of but the council insists does not have permission, will see activists create a diversion using the red-robed troupe of performers who are often seen at their demos, which would then allow members of the group to break into the castle grounds.

A Zoom meeting recording was posted online in which they detailed their plans. In it, the group discuss how a camp will be set up just below the castle walls with permission granted by the police and council.

Thames Valley Police told The Independent it was aware of the planned occupation but added that it would not “tolerate criminal behaviour”. However, a council spokesperson insisted the group does not have permission.

The group hope the publicity from storming the castle will help boost their profile and enhance their demands for a citizens’ assembly to be established to tackle the climate crisis.