Crowborough is a small town nestled in the picturesque English countryside, cherished by its residents for its tranquillity and close-knit community. However, this peace is under threat as the government plans to convert the Crowborough army camp into accommodation for 600 asylum seekers.

During the last instance of housing asylum seekers here, the impact on our community was profound: local parks, once a haven for family outings and children’s play, were overcrowded, making it difficult for residents to enjoy these public spaces. Many residents reported feeling intimidated when walking alone at night, fundamentally altering the town's welcoming atmosphere.

Crowborough simply lacks the infrastructure to accommodate such a large influx of people. Our local services, including schools, healthcare, and public transport, are already strained and cannot support an additional 600 people without significant detriment to current residents. The existing facilities weren't designed to cope with such a large population increase, which could lead to decreased quality of life for everyone.

However, our community is not against helping those in need. We advocate for this accommodation to be distributed across multiple locations, better equipped to handle such demands. This approach would not only relieve the pressure on Crowborough but also ensure asylum seekers are housed in environments conducive to healthier living conditions and integration opportunities.

To protect the community and preserve its resources while extending a helping hand to those in need, we urge the government to reconsider its current plan. By signing this petition, you are voicing your support for a balanced solution that respects both locals’ needs and the welfare of asylum seekers. Let us work towards a future that upholds the values of compassion and commonsense for all involved. Sign our petition today.