Edward Taylor speaks to ITV News as the Government announces plans to challenge ‘asylum hotel’ ruling

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Government seeks to overturn High Court ruling on Epping asylum hotel case

Osbornes Law featured in ITV News coverage earlier this week, offering legal insight into the Government’s attempt to overturn a High Court ruling that blocked the use of a former hotel in Epping as asylum seeker accommodation.

The case began after Epping Forest District Council successfully challenged the Home Office for trying to repurpose the hotel without planning permission. The court ruled that the change of use required formal approval under planning law. The hotel’s owners are appealing the decision, with the Government applying to intervene.

Edward Taylor, Partner in the Housing & Social Care department at Osbornes Law, told ITV News the case is notable because the local authority had made its position clear early on; the hotel was no longer in active use and that a planning application was required.

This legal dispute could set an important precedent regarding the powers of local councils in planning matters involving Government-led asylum accommodation.

Watch the full ITV News story featuring Edward Taylor

 

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