URL: https://rds.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4346

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Council considered a  motion regarding the use of the Bell Hotel in Epping and the Phoenix Hotel in North Weald by the Home Office to house asylum seekers.   The motion published on the agenda for the meeting had been subsequently revised, in consultation with the Group Leaders, and was proposed by Cllr H Whitbread and seconded by Cllr C Whitbread. The Council agreed to consider the revised motion that had been published on a supplementary agenda for the meeting, which became the substantive motion.   A number of Councillors from the different political groups spoke in favour of the motion. Cllr S Yerrell gave a particularly moving speech and read out a message from the father of the girl who was the victim of the recent alleged sexual assault, which had sparked the public protests outside the Bell Hotel in Epping.   There were no amendments proposed, and the substantive revised motion as first moved was adopted unanimously.   Resolved:   This Council expresses its deep concern and firm opposition to the continued use of hotels in Epping Forest District to house asylum seekers and calls on the Government to close the Bell Hotel immediately and permanently.   The Bell Hotel in Epping and the Phoenix Hotel in Bobbingworth are currently used by the Home Office to accommodate asylum seekers. The Bell Hotel houses all-male asylum seekers. These two hotels are a few miles apart and have been at the centre of serious incidents recently, including: ·                  The arrest and charging of an individual for the sexual assault of a schoolgirl in Epping town centre. ·                  The arrest of another individual for arson, who is believed to have moved between the two hotels.   These incidents have caused significant anger and distress among local residents and attracted national media attention.   The Council: ·                  expresses sympathy and support for all the victims of these incidents and subsequent violence in Epping. ·                  thanks the police for responding to recent incidents and notes that this has diverted resources from normal policing activities. ·                  condemns the behaviour of those who have travelled to Epping to seek confrontation and violence and calls on all to express opinions peacefully and within the law.   Epping Forest District Council has consistently opposed the use of these hotels for asylum accommodation, citing their unsuitability.   The Council reaffirms that placing vulnerable individuals in small towns and rural areas without appropriate supervision, infrastructure or support services is irresponsible. It strains local services and creates anxiety in the community.   Furthermore, the Council expresses concern that: ·                  there is no transparency over who is housed in the hotels. The Council is particularly concerned that the Bell Hotel houses an all-male population. ·                  the Government’s failure to act quickly to close the Bell Hotel may have endangered public safety. ·                  community tensions are rising, exacerbated by extremist political groups.   The Bell Hotel has become an untenable location for both the safety of the Epping community and the asylum seekers placed there and must be closed immediately.   The Council also recognises that the Phoenix Hotel is currently housing families and has a duty to ensure the safe and supported transition of these vulnerable individuals, especially in light of the recent fire at the property.   This Council therefore resolves to:   (1)        call for the immediate and permanent closure of the Bell Hotel as asylum accommodation.   (2)        call for the managed closure of the Phoenix Hotel, ensuring the safe transition of families, with due regard to safeguarding responsibilities.   (3)        urge the Home Office and relevant Government Ministers to: (a)        cease the use of unsuitable hotels in small towns and rural areas for asylum accommodation. (b)        properly consult with local authorities before placing individuals in their area. (c)        take urgent action to prevent further risks to public safety and rising community tensions.   (4)        write formally to the Home Secretary, on behalf of full council, to set out the Council’s position and demand immediate action.   (5)        encourage local residents and councillors to responsibly express their objections in a democratic, constructive, and peaceful way, including by signing the petition launched by the Leader of the Council and writing to their Member of Parliament.   Following consideration of the motion, the meeting was adjourned at 8.15pm for a short period to allow members of the public to vacate the Viewing Gallery.

Date of Decision: July 24, 2025