Epping councillors have unanimously called on the Government to close The Bell Hotel and The Phoenix Hotel, both housing asylum seekers, following ongoing protests and unrest in the town. Demonstrators marched from The Bell Hotel to the council offices, demanding action after one hotel resident was charged with multiple sexual offences, sparking community outrage.
Essex Police launched a major operation to maintain order, deploying officers in riot gear, canine units, and fencing. A dispersal order and curfew were put in place, and face coverings were banned under public order laws.
Residents expressed fear for community safety, with many citing concerns for children and demanding proper vetting of asylum seekers. Councillors acknowledged these fears, with Reform UK’s Jaymey McIvor emphasising this is “about women’s safety,” while condemning all violence and dismissing claims that protestors were solely “far-right thugs.”
Essex Police denied allegations that they transported counter-protesters, insisting their role was to protect public safety.
With protests spreading nationwide, frustrations continue to grow over the Government’s use of hotels for unvetted migrants. While the trial of the accused continues, local voices say they feel unheard and unsafe—calling for immediate change and accountability.
