Essex County Council has deployed six private security guards in three town centers as part of an initiative called Operation Vanguard. The guards will patrol Braintree, Colchester, and Chelmsford for an initial three-month trial period, operating from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. The move comes in response to resident complaints about gatherings of male migrants in town centers, with some reports alleging intimidating behavior and wolf-whistling at schoolgirls.
The decision by the Reform UK-led council follows government plans to increase the number of asylum seekers housed at the former RAF airbase Wethersfield from 800 to 1,245. Migrants from the base, which is described as the largest of its kind in Britain, often travel to surrounding areas by bus. The Home Office has indicated that the Wethersfield facility will remain operational beyond 2027.
Reform UK stated that Operation Vanguard is a direct response to concerns raised by local residents, particularly women and girls, regarding male migrants in town centers. Residents have reported that the presence of these groups makes town centers feel unsafe, with one individual noting that his wife and her friends avoid the town center on certain days due to intimidation. Another resident described seeing migrants dropped off by busload, congregating near cash machines and in shops.
The patrols are estimated to cost approximately £118,000 plus VAT, funded from a community improvement fund. The guards are tasked with deterring anti-social behavior, providing reassurance to residents, and gathering evidence on the need for additional support. Reform UK leader of Essex County Council, Peter Harris, emphasized that the initiative prioritizes the safety of Essex residents.
Concerns about the Wethersfield facility have been ongoing, with descriptions of it as a 'holiday camp' due to its amenities. Reports have also surfaced regarding incidents within the facility, including one case of assault. The Home Office maintains that while there is no evidence linking the Wethersfield accommodation to increased crime levels, it acknowledges anecdotal evidence of fear and perceived risk among communities.
However, the decision to hire private security has drawn criticism from opposing councilors. Labour county councilor Lee Scordis argued that the decision is driven by prejudice and that council reports and police data show no evidence of increased crime related to asylum seekers in Colchester. Liberal Democrat councilor Stephen Robinson echoed these sentiments, suggesting that such measures stoke fear and stereotypes and that effective policing and community projects are needed instead.
Private security guards generally have limited powers, and law enforcement remains the responsibility of the police. The Home Office stated that public safety is a priority and that they work with local police to ensure the safety and security of communities around asylum seeker sites. They also noted ongoing efforts to reform the asylum system, close asylum hotels, and move asylum seekers into alternative accommodations.