COUNCIL leader Chris Whitbread, Leader of Epping Forest District Council has called for the closure of asylum seeker hotels in the Epping Forest district after an incident in Epping on Tuesday 8 July.

Statement by Councillor Chris Whitbread

“The events that took place in Epping on Tuesday are both deeply disturbing and extremely concerning. I want to thank Essex Police for their rapid and effective response, and I commend the local residents whose quick thinking helped ensure the swift arrest of the suspect.

“Let me be absolutely clear. Epping Forest District Council has consistently and repeatedly opposed the use of the Bell Hotel to accommodate asylum seekers. From the outset, we warned the Home Office that this site is entirely inappropriate. Placing vulnerable individuals from a wide range of cultural backgrounds into an unsupervised setting, in the centre of a small town, without the proper infrastructure, support or services, is both reckless and unacceptable. It puts pressure on local services, causes understandable concern for residents, and is unfair on those placed in the hotel.

“The Home Office must now face the reality of the situation. The Bell Hotel must be closed without delay. Our warnings have been ignored for too long.

“Epping is a strong, compassionate and united community. While police have confirmed there is no ongoing threat, residents should be reassured that additional police patrols and active monitoring of the High Street and nearby areas are already in place to ensure public safety.

“I urge everyone to rely solely on official updates from the police and the council. Avoid speculation or misinformation being spread on social media or elsewhere. We will remain calm and united, and we will work to ensure Epping remains a safe place for everyone.”

Councillor Chris Whitbread, Leader of Epping Forest District Council