Controversial Asylum Camp in East Sussex to Incur £5.6 Million Policing Bill
A former army cadet training facility in Crowborough, East Sussex, which has been repurposed by the Home Office to house up to 540 male asylum seekers, is projected to cost taxpayers an additional £5.62 million in policing expenses. This substantial sum, confirmed by Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne, covers anticipated operational costs including enhanced officer presence, specialised technology, community engagement initiatives, public order management, and investigative resources.
Funding Request Submitted to Home Office
Ms Bourne has formally submitted a funding application to the Home Office, requesting that the department cover the entire policing bill. The cost estimate, prepared by Sussex Police, is based on Home Office assurances that the Crowborough site will remain operational for a maximum of twelve months. The force has indicated that additional equipment, vehicles, and technological infrastructure will be required throughout the current financial year and into 2026/27.
"We recognise the impact of this additional policing demand and are committed to keeping the public safe across the whole of Sussex," a Sussex Police spokesperson stated. "We are working with the Home Office to seek additional funding."
Local Opposition and Ongoing Protests
The decision to utilise the Crowborough Training Camp, announced by the Home Office in October, has sparked significant local opposition. Residents have expressed fury over the prospect of 540 single men being accommodated with freedom of movement, leading to organised protests.
- Thousands of residents have marched through the town on eleven separate weekends.
- A twelfth protest is anticipated this weekend, with police preparing for large crowds.
- A local campaign has raised over £93,000 to fund a Judicial Review challenging the Home Office decision.
Residents have accused Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood of disregarding community concerns, with tensions remaining high in the area.
Home Office Strategy and Site Facilities
The Home Office maintains that housing asylum seekers at large-scale sites like Crowborough is a crucial component of government reforms to address illegal migration. The strategy aims to reduce perceived pull factors attracting migrants to the UK while alleviating pressure on communities caused by the use of dispersed hotel accommodations.
"Illegal migration has been placing immense pressure on communities," stated Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. "Crowborough is just the start. I will bring forward site after site until every asylum hotel is closed and returned to local communities."
The Home Office has released photographs and video footage showcasing the camp's facilities, which include:
- Dormitory accommodations
- A dedicated medical centre
- Shower blocks and sanitation facilities
- Dining and leisure areas
- Interview suites and induction rooms
The department states that individuals will be housed at the site for a maximum of three months each while their asylum claims are processed, with unsuccessful applicants facing removal from the country.
The first group of asylum seekers was transported to the camp under cover of darkness at 3:30 AM on a recent Thursday, marking the operational commencement of a facility that continues to generate considerable financial, social, and political debate.
