Epping, Surrey Councils Seek High Court Injunctions Over Asylum Hotels Amid Protests

Epping Forest District Council has applied for an interim High Court injunction to stop the Home Office from housing asylum seekers at the Bell Hotel in Epping, citing escalating community tensions and safety concerns after an asylum seeker was charged with allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. The council argues the use of the hotel breaches planning permission, as it no longer functions as a hotel and is located near schools and a residential care home, posing risks to local residents. Council leader Chris Whitbread highlighted the lack of criminal record checks on individuals housed there and criticized the Home Office for ignoring community concerns. Parallel protests have also occurred in Surrey, where residents oppose the Home Office's plan to house adult male asylum seekers at the Stanwell Hotel, prompting the local council to seek legal advice and request the immediate reconsideration of the policy. Surrey councilors expressed fears about safety and integration, although families currently housed in the hotel have reportedly integrated well. Both councils emphasize the perceived irreparable harm to their communities and are seeking to reverse the use of these hotels for asylum accommodation.