Second legal bid planned to block asylum camp

A group has announced it will once again attempt a legal challenge against plans to house asylum seekers at a former military site.

The Home Office announced last year that some 500 people seeking asylum would be housed at an army camp in Crowborough in East Sussex.

Crowborough Shield, which calls itself a non-political, voluntary residents' group, said on Tuesday it had raised enough money to renew its request for a judicial review into the plans, which was previously refused by a judge.

The Home Office has been approached for comment.

Kim Bailey, Crowborough Shield founder, said in a Facebook post she would give an update about what happens next.

"Huge well done to everyone," she said. "There have been some fantastic, generous donations.

"This community is just incredible".

Bailey said she had spoken to the group's lawyers to ensure their bid was submitted before the 16:00 GMT deadline on Wednesday.

A fundraiser by the group has raised around £138,000.

It comes after Wealden District Council said it will not pursue any further legal action against the plans following advice from its lawyers.

The local authority added that a new judicial review would "achieve nothing of practical value" and risked wasting taxpayers' money.

There has been controversy over government plans, which have attracted weekly protests.

Some residents have raised concerns about safety and possible pressure on public services, while others have said past refugees accommodated at the camp did not cause problems and called for compassion.

Army and Air cadets previously used the base, alhough they left after the plans were announced.

In January, the first asylum seekers - 27 men - were moved onto the site.

The Home Office earlier told the BBC it wants to end the use of expensive hotels to house asylum seekers.

It said military sites as temporary accommodation can reduce the impact on communities and better deliver for the taxpayer.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.