Police reopen New York protest park as tent ban upheld

Police late on Tuesday began reopening a Manhattan park hours after dismantling a two-month-old camp set up by anti-Wall Street protesters, as a US judge backed a ban on pitching tents in the area.

Police opened a fence which had been erected around Zuccotti Park and began allowing protesters back in one-by-one explaining the judge's ruling, which means they can gather but cannot camp or sleep there.

"No one will be denied entry," a police officer said at the gate, as people began to wander back in again. Once inside, the crowd began to chant: "All day, all week, occupy Wall Street."

Mayor Michael Bloomberg said in a statement that city authorities had planned to reopen the private park, which is owned by a company called Brookfield Properties, since early morning after a clean-up was completed.

"The opening of the park was delayed due to legal action taken against the City, but Zuccotti Park is now open to the public," Bloomberg said.

The judge's ruling "vindicates our position that First Amendment rights do not include the right to endanger the public or infringe on the rights of others by taking over a public space with tents and tarps," Bloomberg said.

"The city has the ultimate responsibility to protect public health and safety and we will continue to ensure that everyone can express themselves in New York City.

"Zuccotti Park will remain open to all who want to enjoy it, as long as they abide by the park’s rules," Bloomberg added.