A network of individuals, independent and alternative media activists and organisations, offering grassroots, non-corporate, non-commercial coverage of important social and political issues.

New G20 convergence space opened

g2 convergence space- payne house, earl street ec2a 2al

This space is now being squatted as a convergence centre, the space is non-affiliated and welcomes all activist groups (as long as they agree to the 'safer spaces' policy and respect the ideals of the space).

We will be hosting a series of workshops, banner making, film nights, info space, cafe and sleeping space. There is enough space for meetings we held, and enough space to house many, many people. However bring your own sleeping materials and comforts. We will try and help, but be prepared to be self-sufficient. Friendly animals are welcome, but there is also one animal-free floor.

To reduce tension between us and the police at this sensitive time, the space is a drug- and alcohol-free centre, with one or two smoking rooms. We are also operating under a camera-free zone policy. Please be respectful and ask before taking photographs. No no no journalists allowed on site.

We hope to be secure and the police will keep their distance, but as unpredictable as they are we cannot guarantee this. For this place to survive and strive, donations are very welcome. Be resourceful, be creative.

g20 convergence space- Payne house, 8-16 Earl Street ec2a 2al

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=payne%20house%20ec2a%202al&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en

Any queries, email:

iwanttocrashinasquatfortheg20@hushmail.com

Payne House - G20 Convergence Centre

Comments

Hide the following 8 comments

p.s. wish list

31.03.2009 12:54

It's a big one, we've got a lot of space to fill.
-chairs, tables, comfy shit
-food!
-kitchen utensils - literally anything you may have in your kitchen going spare (keep your sink, we've got some) - pots, pans, hobs, toasters, cutlery, plates, kettle etc
-spare warm clothes
-toys
-any paint and banner material
-loo roll, toothpaste, soap etc
-people!
-people!
-people!

The Payn Collective

Payn House

Good job

31.03.2009 13:47

is there anything happening tonight?

@narchist

help required urgently

31.03.2009 14:57

currently being evicted, anyone in the area that can get there quick to show support, would be appreciated

anon

police are searching everyone before letting them through

31.03.2009 15:50

the cops are searching everyone for weapons before allowing them down the street to the convergence centre.

update

Update 5pm

31.03.2009 16:22

The above comment is groundless. There has been no eviction attempt.

We have a beautiful four-storey building with running water and loads of crash space. Please come down and bring supplies! We could especially do with some food. We have a kitchen, but no cooking facilities.

The police and a FIT team have now come down and set up camp at either end of Earl's road. They are currently conducting stop and searches and generally trying to scare people away with intimidation tactics. There were also journalists and cameras around earlier in the day.

Do not bring anything with you that could be grounds for arrest. You do not have to give them your name or any other details. Ensure that if you are stopped and searched that you receive documentation of the incident.

We encourage people to arrive in groups in possible. We also recommend that you contact us to check the current status of things and advised routes prior to arrival: 07532 220513.

See you soon!

convergence crew
mail e-mail: iwanttocrashinasquatfortheg20@hushmail.com

Arrest Update

31.03.2009 22:46

In the last 24 hours 7 people have been arrested whilst trying to come into the convergence centre, all for going 'equipped' with items ranging from screwdrivers to a pen knife that was used for sharpening eye liner. The police claimed the searches were justified because they thought they saw someone come in with a samuri sword... which to clarify is not true. Nothing found in the stop and search would/could have been used for violence, the police are arresting people for minor things to cause harrassment and intimidation.

However, don't mind the police, come down to Payne House G20 Convergence Centre and enjoy this week of protest together. Bring bedding, comfy stuff and things required for cooking eating food. This is a great space with a lovely atmosphere, food, crash space, working toilets and tea.

Be aware of potential police and FIT presence although they are not always around, be careful what you bring.

Payne House
mail e-mail: iwanttocrashinasquatfortheg20@hushmail.com

Poice FIT teams still in operation.

31.03.2009 23:25

At 11:30 pm a report came in confirming that police FIT teams are still in operation outside the convergence centre. People in and out of the building are still being stopped and searched, presumably for 'weapons'. People that has gone through these stop and searches remind everyone that there is no requirement to give name and addresses when being stopped and searched.

imc-dispatch

Anyone with photos?

06.04.2009 14:48

Well done to everyone involved in Payne House, it truely was an amazing space! I lost the photos i took of the building, inside and out, if anyone has any pics please post them!

Helen

UK Indymedia