The UK Home Office has abandoned plans to turn a former hospital into accommodation for asylum seekers following objections from local authorities and politicians.
The proposal, which involved converting the vacant Esperance Hospital in Eastbourne into temporary housing for up to 125 asylum seekers, faced resistance from Eastbourne Borough Council and local MP Josh Babarinde.
Although no formal agreement had been reached, Babarinde, a Liberal Democrat, raised concerns about the lack of school places, GP appointments, and the town’s ongoing homelessness crisis. He also criticized the government for failing to consult local residents before making the decision.
Following the Home Office’s U-turn, Babarinde stated:
“Eastbourne is a compassionate and inclusive town, and we do play our part – but mass accommodation schemes like this are not the way.”
‘The Right Decision’
Eastbourne Borough Council’s leader, Stephen Holt, said:
“I made it very clear to the Home Office that this site was inappropriate, and this outcome is a result of our continuous efforts.”
Local Conservative Party leader Robert Smart also welcomed the decision, stating that the plan should “never have been considered in the first place.”
The Esperance Hospital, which operated from the 1920s until its closure in 2019, has been undergoing renovations to be converted into 45 flats. The building has remained vacant since March 2020.
What This Means for Nigerians in the UK
For Nigerians and other asylum seekers hoping for stable accommodation in the UK, this decision highlights the ongoing challenges in securing suitable housing. The government continues to face pushback from local councils when attempting to house asylum seekers in certain areas.
If you’re an asylum seeker or immigrant in the UK, ensure you stay informed about available support options. Follow Naija UK Connect for updates on policies that affect the Nigerian community in the UK.
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