Crowborough erupts in protest over asylum seekers and Winnie-the-Pooh spending
Residents in Crowborough are protesting against two separate council decisions. One involves plans to house hundreds of asylum seekers at a local Army base, with the Home Office intending to accommodate 540 single, adult male asylum seekers at the Army Training Camp. The other centres on spending £450,000 on Winnie-the-Pooh celebrations while CCTV cameras remain switched off.
Tensions have grown as building work continues at the Army base, where preparations are still underway. Meanwhile, locals question why funds are being directed toward commemorative events instead of restoring security measures.
The Home Office originally announced plans to move the first group of asylum seekers into the Army Training Camp. However, the transfer has now been delayed, but residents remain sceptical and concerned about the long-term impact.
Around 4,000 people recently marched through the town to oppose the housing scheme. Many fear the arrival of 540 male asylum seekers could strain local resources and alter the community’s character. Some have even spent thousands on private security to protect their homes.
Adding to the frustration, Crowborough’s CCTV cameras were turned off over a year ago and have yet to be reactivated. Locals argue that the lack of surveillance has left the town centre vulnerable. Instead of addressing this, Wealden District Council has allocated £450,000 to mark the 100th anniversary of Winnie-the-Pooh, a decision that has sparked further outrage.
Construction activity at the Army base suggests preparations are still underway. The Home Office has not confirmed a new date for the asylum seekers’ arrival, but residents continue to voice their opposition through protests and public meetings.
The delay in moving asylum seekers has done little to ease local concerns. Crowborough’s residents remain divided over the council’s priorities, with many pushing for restored CCTV before further spending on events. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between community safety and council funding decisions.
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