THE Court of Appeal has now refused the application of Epping Forest District Council for permission to appeal to the Supreme Court.

No reasons were given. It is now open for the council to ask the Supreme Court itself for permission to appeal against the judgment of the Court of Appeal. The council has consistently opposed the use of the Bell Hotel to place asylum-seekers, which is in breach of planning control and is against the interests of those living in, working in and using the area.

“We believe the Court of Appeal decision to overturn the interim injunction for the closure of the Bell Hotel was wrong. The Court of Appeal judges appear to have placed the Secretary of State’s duties towards asylum seekers above those of the council to uphold the planning system. It is the planning system that provides an orderly forum for local concerns about the use of land to be debated, decided and enforced, consistently with published policies. Overriding that system by forcing the council to accommodate the Secretary of State’s “wider interests” weakens that system, and only serves to encourage disorderly means of expression. This is not the way of the council.

“We represent the interests of local residents. The implications for local democracy and good government are profound if the Home Secretary’s powers trump the statutory responsibilities of councils. However, this is not the end of the matter. We consider we have a strong case for a final injunction. The final injunction hearing is expected to be heard some time in early October. In the meantime, the council is keeping all our options open, including seeking permission from the Supreme Court to appeal against the judgment of the Court of Appeal.”

Councillor Chris Whitbread, Leader of Epping Forest District Council

“As I a walk through Epping people talk to me. There are all shades of opinion, but I sense most residents support our action to close the Bell Hotel. However, I also get a sense that they are tired and need some respite from the disturbances that have taken place in the last few weeks.

“I support the right of local people to peacefully protest. However, following further disturbances and arrests by Essex Police, I am approaching the other group leaders on Epping Forest District Council and other community leaders to jointly ask protesters to reflect on whether they continue with the twice-weekly local protests. If you choose to continue, it should be done considerately and calmly, with awareness of the impact on local residents and the local economy. The people of Epping are under great strain. As schools return this week, I appeal to the protest organisers to show restraint and give our families and children some much needed respite.

“Let the council focus on fighting this case through the courts. We have already made a strong case, and we remain confident in our position as the legal process continues. Make your case to the Home Secretary in Westminster while the council argues for the full injunction at the High Court in October.

“Think of our children and allow local families some space and reassurance as they start the new school year.”