Police in Crowborough, East Sussex, have issued a dispersal order amid protests over unconfirmed plans to house asylum seekers at a local military training camp. The town of 22,000 has been on edge since rumours emerged that up to 540 single adult male asylum seekers could be moved to the site, part of a Home Office pledge to end hotel use.
Local groups have formed patrols, with some residents accusing them of vigilantism. Nick Jones, a former scout leader and founder of Crowborough Patrol, denied the label, stating the group consists of men over 40, including a 70-year-old. They claim to respond to community fears of attacks, noting police response times of 30 minutes from Eastbourne.
On Tuesday night, tensions escalated as about 50 protesters gathered near the camp. Police responded to reports of an assault, later found to be false, but remained on scene. A section 34 dispersal order was issued at 9.15pm, allowing officers to remove anyone causing antisocial behaviour. Many protesters interpreted this as preparation for the asylum seekers' arrival.
Local opinions are divided. Tony Musumeci, owner of Mattia Italian deli, expressed support for the plan, citing his own positive experiences as an immigrant. However, most residents oppose the move, with some flying drones over the site to monitor activity. Rumours spread that two coachloads of asylum seekers had already entered the camp, though this remains unconfirmed.
The Home Office stated no final decision has been made on Crowborough. Sussex Police confirmed the dispersal order was temporary and aimed at preventing disorder. The situation remains tense as the community awaits further developments.
