"An Essex council is asking protesters to end demonstrations outside a hotel housing asylum seekers as it continues to pursue legal action over the property. Chris Whitbread, the leader of Epping Forest, called for calm and said the Conservative-controlled council could ultimately seek permission to appeal against the overturning of a high court ban on the current use of the Bell."
"Whitbread said in his statement on Tuesday that the latest ruling was not the end of the matter. He said Epping had a strong case ahead of a full high court hearing next month to discuss a permanent injunction for the Bell, and was keeping all options open including seeking permission from the supreme court to challenge last week's ruling."
"I support the right of local people to peacefully protest. However, after further disturbances and arrests by Essex police, I am approaching the other group leaders on Epping Forest district council and other community leaders to jointly ask protesters to reflect on whether they continue with the twice-weekly local protests. If you choose to continue, it should be done considerately and calmly, with awareness of the impact on local residents and the local economy."
Epping Forest District Council asked protesters to end demonstrations outside the Bell hotel, which houses asylum seekers, while the council pursues legal action over the property. Three judges set aside a temporary injunction, allowing more than 130 people to remain. Council leader Chris Whitbread said the latest ruling was not the end and that the council will press a full high court hearing next month to seek a permanent injunction and may seek permission to appeal to the supreme court. Whitbread appealed for calm, urged considerate protests because families are under strain, and noted far-right activists have promoted demonstrations; three people were arrested during recent protests.
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