Chichester Park Hotel: Protests break out at Home Office site

The government took over the Chichester Park Hotel on Monday after it was announced that the site would close with bookings cancelled or moved.

Now, a demonstration has broken out at the hotel with emergency services on site to quell the disruption.

Protesters at the hotel (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

Protesters held placards reading "We care for our community" and "beep your support" in response to the use of the hotel.

Counter protesters also shared their support for the plans to house migrants adding that they were welcome in the country.

The demonstrations come after the announcement that the hotel would be used earlier this month.

Protesters at the hotel (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

A third party contractor will take over the site on behalf of the Home Office.

Railings were seen placed outside the hotel to control the crowds protesting and blocking access to the hotel.

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Multiple Sussex Police officers were also on hand to control the unrest at the scene.

The Home Office previously refused to confirm or deny the use of the hotel, adding: “The number of people arriving in the UK who require accommodation has reached record levels and has put our asylum system under incredible strain.

Police with protesters (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

“We have been clear that the use of hotels to house asylum seekers is unacceptable – there are currently more than 51,000 asylum seekers in hotels costing the UK taxpayer £6 million a day.

“The Home Office is committed to making every effort to reduce hotel use and limit the burden on the taxpayer.”

Protesters at the hotel (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

Chichester MP Gillian Keegan also shared her concern for the plans adding that she had contacted the Home Office about the issue.

A protest was also held at the site last weekend.

In a joint statement, Chichester District Council and West Sussex County Council said: “A hotel in the Chichester area is being considered for use as contingency accommodation for people seeking asylum.

The Chichester Park Hotel (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

 “Decisions around use of hotels and placements for those seeking asylum are made by the Home Office. We are not involved in the decision-making process.

“Should members of the public wish to contact the Home Office directly they can be contacted on public.enquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk or by calling 0207 035 4848.”

Sussex Police have been approached for comment about today's protest.