Councils still planning asylum hotel legal action despite Epping ruling
Despite a Court of Appeal ruling that overturned a temporary injunction, several councils are continuing to pursue legal action to prevent asylum seekers from being housed in hotels in their areas. The court's decision was seen as a major blow to councils opposing the use of hotels for this purpose.
The injunction had been sought by Epping Forest District Council to stop the housing of asylum seekers at The Bell Hotel in Epping. The Court of Appeal found that the injunction was "seriously flawed in principle," citing the potential displacement of 138 asylum seekers.
Continuing Legal Challenges
Following the ruling, the Epping Forest District Council stated it is considering all options, including an appeal to the Supreme Court. The Conservative-run Broxbourne Council in Hertfordshire and the Reform-controlled West Northamptonshire Council have also announced that they will continue with their own legal challenges, which they say were already underway.
These councils argue that the hotels are not suitable for asylum accommodation and that their use places a significant strain on local services. They also claim that using the hotels in this way is a violation of planning permission.
Political and Social Reactions
After the ruling, a Home Office minister said the decision would allow the government to reduce hotel usage "in a planned and orderly manner." However, leaders of both the Conservative and Reform parties encouraged councils to continue their legal fight.
Meanwhile, the situation has become a flashpoint for protests. The Court of Appeal noted that the council's original legal team cited demonstrations as a reason for the injunction, which the judge found concerning, as it could encourage more lawlessness. Protests outside The Bell Hotel have continued, with two men charged following a recent demonstration.
Enver Solomon, head of the Refugee Council, said the ruling does not solve the underlying problems. He called on the government to act faster to reduce hotel usage, which he said has become a "flashpoint for neighborhood fear, but also for far-right attacks."
