Bexhill Furious Over Surprise Asylum Housing Plan
Local residents in Bexhill are up in arms after the Government revealed plans to use the Northeye site to house 1,200 asylum seekers by December 2023. Shockingly, Rother District Council and East Sussex County Council say they were only told about the proposal hours before the public announcement on March 29.
Councils Left in the Dark, Community on Edge
The councils condemned the lack of prior consultation, saying it’s left the community frustrated and worried about the impact. Many locals fear the strain this move could place on already stretched infrastructure.
In a joint statement on April 3, the councils said:
“We are working with other councils facing similar plans to learn from their experiences. We understand the uncertainty is unsettling for Bexhill residents and businesses. We are urging the Home Office to urgently set up proper channels to address community questions.”
Home Office Promises Freedom With Conditions
A Home Office briefing revealed that asylum seekers would be free to come and go but must stay on-site overnight. If someone isn’t back by 11pm, officials will call to check if they need help – but there’s no curfew in place.
The plan aims to house 1,200 people at Northeye by the end of the year, raising fresh worries about local services and support.
Community Demands Answers
Residents are demanding more transparency from the Government and assurances that local voices will be heard before any moves forward. The councils vow to keep pressing the Home Office to fully consider the town’s concerns.
