Plans to temporarily accommodate up to 540 asylum seekers at a former military site in East Sussex remain unresolved, according to local officials, despite ongoing discussions between the Home Office and local authorities.
The Home Office has confirmed it is considering using the Crowborough army training camp as part of a broader strategy to phase out hotels for asylum seekers. The proposal has prompted repeated protest marches in Crowborough, reflecting heightened local concern over safety, capacity, and transparency.
Council Meeting Highlights Strong Local Opposition
Wealden District councilors met with Home Office representatives on Tuesday to discuss the proposed asylum seekers base. Deputy Council Leader Rachel Millward described the meeting as “frustrating” and said councilors clearly communicated their opposition to the plan.
Millward stated that the scale of the proposed accommodation raised serious concerns, particularly the concentration of a large number of people in a single location. She argued that such an approach is neither appropriate nor sustainable for asylum accommodation and could introduce additional risks to both residents and the wider community.
Concerns Over Communication And Public Safety
Millward, who represents the Green Party, highlighted what she described as widespread misinformation and insufficient communication from the central government. She warned that this information gap has contributed to fear and anxiety among residents, increasing the risk of social tension.
She emphasized that councilors urged the Home Office to engage more proactively with parents, schools, women’s groups, and other community stakeholders. According to Millward, clear communication is essential to addressing concerns around safety, well-being, and daily life impacts for local families.
During the meeting, councilors were informed that the average stay for asylum seekers at the site would be around 70 days if the plan proceeds. The Home Office also confirmed that its agreement with the Ministry of Defense would allow the site to operate for up to 12 months.
Officials noted that no final decision has been taken and that discussions remain ongoing. Any approval would require the site to meet safety, security, health, and welfare standards.
A Home Office spokesperson reiterated the government’s position on reducing reliance on asylum hotels, citing both cost concerns and community pressure. The spokesperson said the government is actively identifying alternative sites to better house asylum seekers.
The department also confirmed that the Prime Minister has instructed the Home Office and the Ministry of Defense to accelerate the identification of suitable military sites across the country, with further announcements expected.
Broader Context Of Asylum Accommodation Policy
The proposed East Sussex site is part of a wider national effort to reform asylum accommodation by reducing reliance on hotels and introducing larger, centralized facilities. Similar approaches have attracted criticism from local authorities and refugee advocacy groups, who argue that large-scale sites can undermine integration and wellbeing. The Refugee Council has consistently called for accommodation solutions that prioritize dignity, community integration, and local consultation.
Key Takeaway
- No final decision has been made on the proposed asylum seekers base at the Crowborough military site, despite ongoing Home Office discussions.
- Strong opposition from local councilors, concerns over safety and communication, and public protests continue to shape the debate as the government pushes ahead with plans to close asylum hotels and reduce accommodation costs.
Was this helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
