Hundreds of people marched in a small southern English town on Sunday to protest a new asylum housing site. The demonstration took place in Crowborough, East Sussex. Protesters opposed the use of a former military barracks to house asylum seekers.
Many demonstrators carried British and English flags as they marched through the town. Twenty-seven male asylum seekers moved into the training camp last week. Since then, the site has quickly become a local flashpoint.
The protest came as the UK government struggles to house rising numbers of asylum seekers. Public opposition has forced ministers to reduce the use of hotels. As a result, former military sites have become a new solution.
Protesters chanted slogans during the march. Crowds shouted, “Enough is enough. Crowborough says no.” Calls for deportation and rejection of local accommodation echoed through the streets. Drummers joined the march while a small police presence monitored the crowd.
Local residents shared their concerns during the protest. Shana Maria said she worried about her six children. Protecting them remained her top priority, she explained. She also said the town knew little about the new arrivals.
Harry Stepney said the country lacked space and resources. He claimed public services already faced serious pressure. Long waits for medical care now affect many families, he added.
Keith Brown blamed the government rather than the migrants. He accused ministers of forcing the policy on communities. According to him, the decision felt imposed without public consent.
The Home Office plans to use the site for more than 500 single male asylum seekers. Officials want to close costly asylum hotels across the country. This policy has sparked protests in several areas.
Local authorities have raised legal concerns. They confirmed they are considering court action. Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood defended the plan during a visit last week.
She said moving people from hotels remains vital for the country. She also promised to fight any legal challenge. Strong local feelings were acknowledged, but she insisted the policy must continue.
Government figures showed 197 hotels still housed asylum seekers in early January. That number dropped from over 400 under the previous administration. Ministers now say military sites offer a faster alternative.
Police said the protest remained peaceful and no arrests occurred. Sussex Police increased patrols around the site. Chief Superintendent James Collis said officers understood community concerns.
Crowborough is one of two military locations chosen for asylum housing. The second site sits at Cameron Barracks in Inverness. Officials say residents will stay for three months while claims are processed.
If officials reject their claims, deportation will follow. The government says this system will reduce costs and speed up decisions.
For more updates, follow London Pulse News.
