Peaceful Protest In Crowborough Over Plans To House Asylum Seekers At Military Site

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A peaceful protest took place in Crowborough on Sunday morning (November 16) in response to government plans to house 600 asylum seekers at a now-disused army training camp on the edge of the town.

Sussex Police confirmed the demonstration went ahead without incident, and no arrests were made.

The government announced the move in October as part of an effort to end the use of hotels to house asylum seekers, with military sites being identified as alternative accommodation.

The Home Office has said it is working with local authorities, property partners, and communities to transition asylum seekers into these sites while maintaining public safety.

Signs at the protest reflected local concerns about safety and community impact, with one reading:

“600 unnamed individuals, single men free to roam, 5 mins from town centre, 5 mins from local schools – what about our feeling of safety & security? So so wrong!” 

Another read:

“Crowborough says No! No!! No!!!”

The Home Office has apologised for the handling of the plans at Crowborough, acknowledging the controversy sparked by a perceived lack of communication.

Wealden District Council criticised the department for the “information vacuum,” saying it had increased tensions in the community and led to threats against councillors.