MIPIM UK organiser set to defy protesters

The organiser of a London property fair has vowed to prevent disruption which marred least year’s event. MIPIM UK bills itself as the UK’s largest exhibition and conference for property professionals, providing a market place for UK players and international investors to meet, discuss projects and opportunities and do business. It takes place at London Olympia from 21-23 October and is a ‘sister show’ to the four-day event at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes in March. Last year, the opening day at Olympia was brought to a standstill and police were when campaigners sought to disrupt London mayor Boris Johnson’s opening address. Attendees found themselves barred from entering the event when security staff lowered the grilles at the entrance. Up to 400 protestors gathered to highlight the rising cost of living in London, which supporters argued has been inflated by investors and property developers. Now organisers have insisted this year’s event will go ahead. A MIPIM UK spokeswoman told CMW: “We’re monitoring the situation and working closely with the relevant authorities and the management of the venue to ensure all necessary measures are in place to avoid any disruption.” Focus e15, a group of young single mothers and campaigners who occupied vacant east London flats, told CMW they would protest outside Olympia alongside the Radical Housing Network.