A residents’ group in Crowborough, East Sussex, is preparing a new legal challenge against the government’s plan to house 540 asylum seekers at a former army training centre.
Crowborough Shield, a local community interest company, had previously filed a claim in December, but the High Court dismissed it as “premature.” At the time, the government had not yet formally decided to use the site, and Justice Mould said the group had “jumped the gun.”
Following the government’s January announcement confirming the plans, the decision is now legally contestable, according to the court. Crowborough Shield says it will file a new High Court claim by the Wednesday deadline.
Matthew Shankland, representing the group, stated: “Filing the initial claim was the only option available to protect our community. We now hope the new challenge can address the concerns about this plan.”
The proposed facility would accommodate up to 540 men, raising local concerns over housing, public services, and community impact. The group argues that the government should consider alternative arrangements before implementing the plan.
Crowborough Shield is seeking legal avenues to ensure that residents’ voices are considered and to explore whether the decision to use the site was properly assessed.
