Essex council worried about migrants to hire security guards
Essex County Council plans to hire security guards to monitor areas frequented by asylum seekers to address resident concerns regarding anti-social behavior. While the council views this as a proportionate response, critics argue the guards lack legal authority and suggest funds should be used for integration efforts.
Why it matters
This reflects the ongoing tension in the UK regarding the management of asylum seeker housing and the balance between community security and social integration.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, The former Wethersfield airbase has housed asylum seekers since July 2023
Security guards will be employed to "provide reassurance to residents" in areas where asylum seekers frequently visit, a council has said.
MDP Wethersfield, near Halstead in north Essex, has been used to house single male migrants since 2023 and the government is looking to increase the number of people accommodated there from about 800 to 1,220.
Essex County Council said it planned to introduce security personnel to Braintree, Colchester and Chelmsford, where some of the migrants travel to by bus.
The Reform UK-led administration said the move would deter anti-social behaviour, although it did not provide examples of incidents involving asylum seekers in these areas.
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