Meeting held today between Wealden council leaders and Minister Alex Norris MP
Publish Date: 25 November 2025
Council leaders met Alex Norris MP, the Minister of Border Security and Asylum, today (Tuesday 25 November) and Home Office officials to insist he respond directly to the widespread fear and concern caused by his proposal to use Crowborough Army Camp as asylum seeker accommodation.
The councillors made clear the level of fear and misinformation in our communities, caused by the Home Office’s complete failure to communicate with residents, and asked for urgent clarification. The Minister apologised for the failure in their communications and promised to send more information quickly.
The Minister insisted no formal decision has been made regarding use of the site. Council leaders demanded that the Home Office communicate the facts in detail and in writing to local residents, and through a consistent in person presence over the weeks and months to come.
Leader of the Council, Councillor James Partridge, said, “We remain appalled at the mess the Home Office has made of the situation, but the Minister today accepted the validity of our concerns and agreed to provide more information quickly and to respond to our specific points. Let’s hope action follows these words, and fast.”
Further information & correspondence from Wealden District Council to the Home Office, including a Planning Contravention Notice served by the council, can be found on the webpage.