Squatters Take Over Former Premises of The Italians

Occupation of vacant commercial units predicted to be a growing issue

The unit has been vacant since the end of last year

28 August, 2026

A notice has appeared outside the former premises of The Italians Deli and Bakery on Chiswick High Road, where a group of squatters is now asserting its right to remain inside the building.

The message, taped to the frontage, states that the property is occupied, that someone is present at all times, and that any attempt to enter without permission would constitute a criminal offence. It follows the familiar format of template notices produced by the Advisory Service for Squatters, although its legal force is understood to be limited.

The Italians closed its bakery at 454–456 Chiswick High Road in December last year, ending a long-running presence on the High Road. The adjoining deli and wine bar later ceased trading.

A long lease on the site, which is just under 3,000 square feet, is being marketed by May & Company for £50,000, with an annual rent of £77,000, a £4,000 service charge and business rates on top. The owner of the Italians blamed 'economic conditions' for the decision to close the branch.

Local businesses in the vicinity told us they were not especially concerned about the squatters who none of them had seen, though several expressed frustration that the occupation might prolong the vacancy. One trader said they had not realised anyone was inside the building until we approached them. There was no response when we knocked on the front door of the building. The agent responsible for the property was asked for an update on efforts to regain possession but has not responded.

Although the squatters’ notice warns that unauthorised entry would be a criminal offence, property specialists say the freeholder does not need to pursue a High Court eviction. An Interim Possession Order can be obtained instead, requiring the occupants to leave within 24 hours and allowing the owner to recover the building more quickly.

The situation reflects a wider trend across West London, where squatting in vacant commercial premises has become more common as high-street vacancies rise. A LandlordZONE report published in July 2026, drawing on High Court Enforcement Group data, found that commercial squatting had increased by around thirty per cent over the previous eighteen months. Although the problem is most concentrated in central London, enforcement teams say it is spreading outward and is likely to intensify as colder weather approaches. Commercial buildings are particularly vulnerable because squatting in them is not a criminal offence unless damage or theft occurs, and enforcement teams report that occupations are becoming more organised, with multiple evictions taking place every day.

Squatters reportedly took possession of the Hammersmith Ram pub on King Street shortly after its closure but they were quickly displaced with the owners opening a discount store.