In a development sparking considerable public debate, a four-star hotel in London’s prestigious Canary Wharf district has begun housing asylum seekers, a move that unfolded under the cover of darkness and ignited immediate protests.
The Britannia International Hotel, a prominent establishment on the waterfront of the South Dock with approximately 500 rooms, witnessed the arrival of a coach carrying individuals believed to be asylum seekers in the early hours of Saturday morning, around 1:40 AM.
Tower Hamlets Council subsequently confirmed the government’s intention to utilize the hotel for temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. This decision has not only angered anti-migrant protesters but also led to the unexpected cancellation of bookings for existing hotel guests, causing significant disruption.
Footage circulating on social media captured the scene, showing primarily male passengers disembarking, many dressed in matching grey tracksuits. Following the initial plans, metal fencing was erected around the hotel as anti-migrant demonstrators gathered to voice their opposition, with reports of eggs being thrown and a police helicopter circling above to monitor the situation.
While the Canary Wharf demonstration remained largely non-violent compared to other recent incidents, it drew a notable crowd including some wearing masks and displaying St George’s flags. Counter-protesters also assembled, with some clips showing them being escorted away by police as other demonstrators followed.
The abrupt cancellations left many hotel guests frustrated, with some claiming they received no clear explanation beyond being told the hotel was closing. One guest recounted being forced to relocate to another hotel an hour away, resulting in a wasted day of their trip.
A Home Office spokesperson addressed the broader context, stating the government’s commitment to reforming the asylum system and reducing reliance on hotel accommodations, aiming to close all asylum hotels by the end of the current Parliament. They emphasized that the security of local communities remains a top priority during this interim period.
This event is part of a wider pattern of protests across the country this summer concerning asylum seeker accommodation, including a recent gathering of over 150 individuals outside The Park Hotel in Diss, Norfolk, following plans to change its use from housing families to single men. Such incidents highlight growing discontent regarding immigration policies.
The involvement of law enforcement has also come under scrutiny, with Essex Police facing questions after footage emerged of officers escorting pro-migrant activists, despite initial denials. The unfolding situation at the Canary Wharf hotel underscores the complex social and political challenges surrounding UK immigration and asylum policy in the nation’s capital.
