Public Discontent Over Asylum Hotels Reaches Affluent London Neighbourhoods

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Concerns over the government’s continued use of hotels to house asylum seekers have spread to some of London’s wealthiest postcodes. Recent protests in Canary Wharf, Islington, and Epping highlight growing frustration across social and political lines, with residents questioning the sustainability and fairness of the current accommodation system.

The conversion of the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf has drawn criticism from locals. IT worker Maxi Gorynski, who helped organise protests, voiced concerns over crime, economic strain, and the lack of public input. “We just can’t possibly understand how any of this could be in our interest,” he said, frustrated by taxpayer money funding high-end accommodation for individuals barred from working.

The hotel programme began during the COVID-19 pandemic to manage an immigration backlog but has evolved into a long-term arrangement. With asylum decisions taking months or years, many remain in temporary housing without the ability to work, leading to public dissatisfaction in both low-income and now affluent communities. Critics raise concerns over safety, community resources, and property values.

In Islington, residents have demonstrated outside the Thistle City Barbican Hotel. Although Metropolitan Police data shows the ward ranks ninth lowest in crime out of 17 local areas, residents cite rising antisocial behaviour. A mother of seven in nearby council housing reported harassment from individuals she believes are housed at the hotel, stating, “We need to stop letting more people into the country and get to the root cause of what’s going on.”

Tensions have risen further after an asylum seeker in Epping was charged with assaulting a 14-year-old girl, an allegation he denies. Roger Hirst, Conservative Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, has called for the hotel’s immediate closure, citing pressure on local services.

The government claims Labour is working to reform the asylum process and reduce hotel use. The Home Office has also begun targeting asylum seekers working illegally as delivery drivers. Still, critics say these steps fall short of resolving deeper issues.

Property agents have reported growing unease. John Costea of Felicity J Lord in Canary Wharf noted increased buyer hesitation due to nearby asylum housing. While far-right figures like Tommy Robinson and Nigel Farage have amplified opposition online, local organisers insist their movement is focused on practical concerns, not ideology.

The growing discontent in traditionally liberal, affluent areas reflects a shift in public tolerance. Residents are now demanding more transparency, faster processing, and long-term solutions for both taxpayers and asylum seekers.