Crowborough Residents Respond to Asylum Seekers Plan at Former Military Site
The plan to house asylum seekers in a former military site in Crowborough has drawn mixed reactions from local residents. The proposal was announced in October, sparking concerns regarding community resources and safety.
Crowborough Residents’ Concerns About Asylum Seeker Plans
One resident, who requested anonymity, expressed doubt about the financial investments made in the military camp. Specifically, she questioned the £1.5 million spent on improving the electricity supply, wondering if such an expense was justified for a temporary solution.
Mixed Emotions Surrounding the Plan
The mother of a young daughter shared her feelings of uncertainty regarding the asylum seekers. She stated, “It’s the unknown. They could be good people, they could be bad people. I have no idea.” This reflects the broader anxiety among residents about the impact of the influx of newcomers.
Capacity and Community Resources
According to the Home Office, the site has the capacity to accommodate up to 540 individuals. This large number has raised alarms among local residents about the strain on existing services.
- Local resident Ally Nowell, 26, who works at Brew Box coffee and snack van, voiced her concerns about community support.
- “As a resident here, it feels like we don’t have enough things that help support our community,” she noted.
- Nowell added that securing a GP appointment is already a challenge, and the arrival of more residents could complicate matters further.
Healthcare Concerns
Residents have reported efforts to alleviate the burden on local healthcare by bringing in external assistance. However, there are concerns about the financial implications of providing care for additional individuals, raising questions about who will ultimately bear the costs.
As Crowborough prepares for this potential change, the sentiment among residents remains cautious. Ongoing discussions with the Home Office may help address some of their concerns as the situation develops.
