Thousands of people marched through Crowborough on Sunday in the fifth week of protests against Home Office plans to house up to 500 male asylum seekers at a former military training camp. The demonstration, the largest yet, drew residents from the town and surrounding areas, as well as far-right activists from elsewhere in England.
The march began at the former military base and wound through the East Sussex market town, with participants carrying union jacks and Saint George’s flags. Some chanted slogans against Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and a car blaring techno music displayed images of three young girls murdered in Southport. About 27 men have already been housed at the site.
Crowborough Shield, a non-political residents’ group, is spearheading a legal challenge against the plans and took part in the march. The group has accused Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood of “threatening” the town and other sites across the country. Mahmood visited Crowborough on Thursday to address concerns.
Sussex Police reported no arrests during Sunday’s march, but three people were arrested on Saturday on suspicion of public order offences. Assistant Chief Constable James Collis said police presence had been increased to provide reassurance. The Home Office intends to use the camp as part of its policy to end the use of hotels for asylum seekers.
