In a communication to the government, Michael Jones emphasized the gravity of the decision, stating, “We have fully utilized the council’s resources to address this urgent situation.”
Following their arrival at Gatwick Airport from Mauritius in early June, over 70 individuals were evaluated by the council, leaving 37 without accommodation rights or emergency housing options.
Initially housed at the K2 leisure centre and later relocated to the Northgate Community Centre, these facilities typically provide short-term stays of 24-48 hours, allowing individuals to arrange alternative accommodations.
Despite efforts involving local charities, volunteers, and council staff, ongoing support at the community centre has been challenging, exacerbated by the upcoming General Election.
A council spokesperson cited staffing constraints due to the election, prompting appeals to government departments for assistance, which were deemed a local issue.
Regrettably, the council informed the centre’s occupants of its imminent closure, while continuing to offer guidance on available support options.
All 37 individuals are UK citizens under the Chagossian British Overseas Territories Citizenship scheme, with the largest Chagossian community in the UK residing in Crawley.
Mr. Jones criticized government leadership, highlighting the council’s inability to bear responsibility for broader international Chagossian community issues arising from government policies.
He underscored Crawley’s housing emergency declaration as reflective of financial constraints and insufficient accommodations.
The council declined to disclose expenditures on the rest centre, citing the ongoing nature of the situation.
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