Leaked plans to house asylum seekers in a new development in Waterlooville, Hampshire, have sparked outrage among locals who feel the move was made without proper consultation. The Home Office intends to relocate 35 migrants to flats above shops in the town centre, as part of a wider strategy to reduce reliance on hotels for migrant accommodation.
Residents describe Waterlooville as a 'zombieland' with a derelict high street that has lost major retailers like Waitrose, Wilko, and Peacocks. Fears of protests similar to those in Epping and Canary Wharf have emerged, with some locals planning street demonstrations before a final decision expected on 1st August.
Steve, a 58-year-old local, expressed concerns for his granddaughter's safety, stating: 'There's no criminal history checks on these people. I think it will attract trouble for us as well as the migrants.' He also worried that protests could be labelled as 'right wing' by authorities.
The development, Waterloo House, is owned by Mountley Group, whose director also runs a migrant hotel in nearby Cosham. An employee at The Junk Emporium, located below the flats, said business has suffered since the announcement, as customers mistakenly believe the shop was involved.
Havant Borough Council leader Councillor Phil Munday criticised the consultation process, noting that the company involved failed to ensure a response was registered. He said: 'We are extremely disappointed... These consultation exercises need to be taken seriously.' The council has secured a 10-day extension to consider the plans.
