THE Court of Appeal has granted permission to hear a challenge against Ealing Council’s Public Spaces Protection Order around the Marie Stopes abortion clinic in Mattock Lane.
Alina Dulgheriu, a mother who was supported by a pro-life vigil outside a London abortion clinic, filed the High Court challenge against Ealing in April last year.
The High Court accepted her rights to freedom of expression, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly had been infringed, but ultimately upheld Ealing’s PSPO.
READ MORE: Campaigners begin challenge against 'buffer zones'
She subsequently launched a crowdfunding campaign to pay for the appeal, which raised more than £50,000 in three months.
The development follows the Home Secretary’s announcement that he would not be introducing 'buffer zones' nationally.
Sajid Javid said such a move would not be proportionate in light of the ‘passive’ nature of activities outside abortion clinics, as well as the existing powers of councils and police.
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