Labour-run councils are exploring legal challenges to prevent hotels from housing asylum seekers, following a landmark High Court ruling that allowed a Conservative council to remove claimants from a hotel in Essex. Wirral and Tamworth councils have confirmed they are considering injunctions to close local hotels, citing concerns over planning regulations and community disruption.
The developments come after Epping Forest District Council secured a temporary High Court injunction to remove asylum seekers from the Bell Hotel. Home Office minister Dan Jarvis stated that the government is reviewing alternative options if a wave of successful challenges emerges. A source close to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper insisted the government remains committed to its plan to close asylum hotels by the end of the parliament, describing the Epping ruling as a “narrow court judgment”.
Wirral council leader Paula Basnett said the authority is “actively considering all options” to close a local hotel, criticising the Home Office for placing asylum seekers without consultation. Tamworth council leader Carol Dean noted the Epping case could set a legal precedent, but acknowledged the government’s statutory duty to accommodate asylum seekers. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has urged Tory-run councils to pursue similar legal action under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.
Several Conservative and Reform UK-led councils, including Broxbourne, East Lindsey, West Northamptonshire, and Staffordshire, are also exploring legal options. However, some authorities lack planning responsibilities, limiting their ability to act. In contrast, Newcastle City Council, led by Labour, has ruled out legal action, with leader Karen Kilgour expressing confidence in ending hotel use without court proceedings.
