Spelthorne will not give up: Council challenges Home Office over Stanwell hotel decision

In response to this change, the Council acted swiftly to obtain legal advice regarding the potential for enforcement action on planning grounds. The Council is now working closely with legal counsel in light of the recent High Court ruling on the Bell Hotel in Epping Forest, which may have significant implications for the situation in Stanwell.

The Council is also continuing to press the Home Office for a formal response to previous correspondence and is urging immediate and meaningful engagement.

Cllr Joanne Sexton, Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, said:

"We will not give up. This decision by the Home Office is deeply concerning and was made without proper consultation or consideration of the local community. Our priority is, and always will be, the wellbeing of our residents and protecting Stanwell. We are pursuing every legal and strategic option available to us, and we call on the Home Office to respond urgently and engage constructively."

Spelthorne Borough Council will continue to keep residents informed as developments unfold.

Read previous press statements:

14 August: Letter to the Home Office regarding Stanwell Hotel - Spelthorne Borough Council

13 August: Spelthorne Borough Council calls for constructive action on Stanwell Hotel use - Spelthorne Borough Council

8 August: Spelthorne votes to oppose Home Office plans to change asylum accommodation - Spelthorne Borough Council

6 August: Stanwell Hotel: Extraordinary Council meeting - Spelthorne Borough Council

4 August: Update: Stanwell Hotel and Council meeting - Spelthorne Borough Council

1 August: Home Office plans for Stanwell Hotel - Spelthorne Borough Council

31 July: Stanwell Hotel update - Spelthorne Borough Council

29 July: Spelthorne raises urgent concerns over Home Office plans for Stanwell Hotel - Spelthorne Borough Council