Crowborough Residents Protest Asylum Seeker Housing Plan at Former Military Site
Hundreds of people gathered today in Crowborough, East Sussex, to protest the government’s plan to house 600 asylum seekers at a former military training camp.
Local residents voiced concerns about safety and the potential strain on local infrastructure. Keith Brown, a Crowborough resident, stated, “If you dump any 600 young men of undocumented, unknown origin in a small town, you’re asking for trouble.” Ben Grant added that he had received reports from vulnerable residents, particularly the elderly and women, expressing fears for their safety. The move is part of a wider government strategy to reduce reliance on hotels for asylum seeker accommodation, a policy that has faced significant criticism.
Authorities acknowledge the right to protest, with a Home Office spokesperson saying, “This government will close every asylum hotel.” They also stated work is underway to identify more suitable sites. However, Wealden District Council has formally requested a reversal of the plan, citing a lack of community engagement and concerns about safeguarding, staffing, and police resources. Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne expressed her “disgust” at the plans, stating they were “dumped on everybody” with “no consultation.” For more information on the UK’s asylum system, see the Refugee Council website.
Refugee charity Care4Calais raised questions about the suitability of the site, describing it as a “dilapidated old army camp” and arguing that barracks are not ideal accommodation for individuals who have often experienced trauma. “Shovelling people into former barracks is not the best use of money and for those seeking asylum,” said Steve Smith of Care4Calais. A petition against the housing plan has already garnered approximately 6,000 signatures. You can find more details about the government’s plans to house asylum seekers here.
Sussex Police confirmed a peaceful protest took place, with officers working to minimize disruption. Officials stated they will continue to assess the situation and address any concerns raised by the community.
