Saturday 14 May 2005

Bluewater and 'banning youths with hoods'

Bluewater shopping centre in Kent was in the news a few days ago for supposedly banning entry to youths who are wearing hoods. This is because such people could intimidate other shoppers.

Such a move has created great furore, but why should it be of any consequence? The management of Bluewater are simply exercising their property rights. Since they own the shopping centre and are responsible for its upkeep and administration, they should be able to refuse entry to any group or individual.

Property rights should only be curbed if rights to person and property are violated whilst owning or using property.