In a controversial move, the British government has begun housing asylum seekers at the Crowborough training camp in East Sussex, sparking tensions among local residents. The first 27 men have now moved into the facility, which is part of the government’s effort to end the use of expensive hotels for housing migrants.
The decision has faced strong opposition from the local authority, Wealden district council, which is considering legal action. Nearby residents have also voiced concerns, leading to two incidents of disorder outside the camp on Friday.
Police have arrested three people – a 36-year-old man and a 62-year-old woman from Crowborough, as well as a 54-year-old man from Newhaven – on suspicion of offences under the Public Order Act. The arrests came after the individuals allegedly shouted abuse, obstructed vehicles, and struck a car leaving the site, alarming the driver and passengers.
Chief Superintendent James Collis of Sussex Police urged those with concerns about the site to contact the Home Office in the first instance, as they retain responsibility for its security and occupants.
The move to use the Crowborough camp is part of the government’s broader plan to house up to 500 asylum seekers at the site, as well as at Cameron Barracks in Inverness. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has vowed to “vigorously defend” any legal challenges to the plan, stating that getting asylum seekers out of hotels is “absolutely crucial for the country.”
However, the local authority remains unconvinced, with Wealden district council considering taking legal action. The council has expressed concerns about the impact on the local community and the lack of consultation.
The situation in Crowborough highlights the ongoing tensions and challenges surrounding the accommodation of asylum seekers in the UK. As the government pushes forward with its plan to move migrants out of hotels, local communities are grappling with the consequences and the need to balance compassion with concerns about the impact on their neighbourhoods.
