Over 300 asylum seekers housed at Crowborough Training Camp in East Sussex have split the town of 22,000 people, leading to weekly anti-migrant marches and counter-protests. The arrival in early 2026 has created a deep rift, with residents either viewing the men as a threat or as vulnerable individuals in need of support.
Protests and Counter-Protests
On a Sunday morning, a few dozen anti-migrant activists waved union jacks outside a travel agent, while a similar number of pro-asylum seeker protesters gathered nearby with signs reading "Humanity has no borders" and "Civilisation fails when hatred prevails." The two groups were separated by a path leading to a Waitrose car park, with police officers forming a buffer.
The anti-migrant demonstrations are organised by groups including Crowborough Says No! and Crowborough Shield. Some protesters wore paramilitary gear, including a member of a "community safety" group called the British Security Project. Despite the tension, the atmosphere was relatively calm, with music playing from both sides.
Community Concerns and Support
Residents have expressed concerns about the asylum seekers, who are all men, with some citing fears of crime and anti-social behaviour. However, supporters point out that there have been only three criminal charges related to Crowborough since the camp opened in January, one involving an asylum seeker and two involving anti-migrant protesters from outside the town.
Local volunteer group Samas (Supporting Arriving Migrants and Asylum Seekers) has over 200 volunteers helping residents with English classes, clothes, and food. Many volunteers fear being targeted, with some disguising themselves when entering town. A dossier compiled by residents claims that supporters have been threatened with acid attacks, petrol bombs, and rape, and that businesses and a church have been threatened.
Official Response and Hopes for Healing
The Home Office defended its decision, stating it is working on a fairer distribution of asylum accommodation, with over £1bn saved in costs since the election. A spokesperson said: "The government is working on a fairer distribution of asylum accommodation across the country, with over £1bn saved in costs since the election. This includes closing all asylum hotels and moving to alternative accommodation, including former military sites."
Despite the divisions, some residents hope the town can heal. Holly Jeffery, a supporter, said: "Crowborough is still a town divided." The anti-migrant group was first to leave the protest, and the pro-asylum seeker group moved into the space, singing and dancing to the Black Eyed Peas' "Where is the Love?"
