
Leader speaks out about demonstrations in Epping
Leader of Council, Councillor Chris Whitbread, opened the Cabinet meeting on Monday 21 July 2025 by addressing recent events relating to demonstrations at the Bell Hotel in Epping.
At the meeting he expressed his concern for the community and local people, praised emergency services and council staff, and supported the right to peaceful protest while condemning violence by a minority of protesters. He emphasised the need for calm and unity, reaffirmed that the Bell Hotel is unsuitable for the current use. He confirmed the ongoing collaboration with MPs to press the issue with the Home Office and acknowledged our limited influence as the local council.
Statement by Councillor Chris Whitbread
The recent demonstrations outside the Bell Hotel in Epping have seen many residents come together to express their concerns in a peaceful and respectful way. I want to acknowledge and thank those who exercised their right to protest calmly and lawfully.
Regrettably, these events continue to be overshadowed by incidents of violence and disorder. I condemn these actions. This behaviour is deeply concerning and entirely unacceptable. Public safety must remain our top priority, and I am sincerely grateful to the police and emergency services for their effective response.
Our position remains clear, the Bell Hotel is not a suitable location for this facility. We have consistently raised this issue and will continue to press the Home Office for its immediate closure. However, it is important to be transparent. This decision is beyond the powers of the local authority. We share the local community’s frustration and will keep advocating strongly on their behalf, alongside our local MPs who are now actively supporting this call.
Councillor Chris Whitbread, Leader of Epping Forest District Council
Essex Police
Previous statements
- News story 18 July – Statement from leader regarding the demonstration in Epping
- News story 11 July – Council takes Home Office to task as leader calls for calm (including link to petition)
- News story 9 July – Statement from council leader following incident in Epping
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