2nd February 2002 - Attempt to squat Free Trade Hall

Activists associated with Earth First! plan to squat the Free Trade Hall, in protest against the City Council’s proposed sale to Radisson Hotels. Security on site is increased the day before the planned occupation, supposedly in response to homeless people gaining access to the site (need to check this). Although the occupation is prevented, activists are able to display banners.

The sale, which goes ahead  is in contravention to the covenant deeding the Free Trade Hall in perpetuity to the people of Manchester; the Council is unable to locate the original deeds.

More info: https://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2002/02/21619.html

NB Wikipedia says sale to Radisson was in 1997 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_Trade_Hall