Reform-led Essex County Council has initiated a three-month trial of private security patrols, dubbed Operation Vanguard, in Colchester, Braintree, and Chelmsford. This move comes in direct response to concerns from local residents, particularly women and girls, about the behavior of male migrants who they claim have made parts of the towns feel unsafe. The patrols began this morning, with guards immediately responding to an incident at a Chelmsford store involving masked youths.
Residents have reported that on days when asylum seekers are transported from the MDP Wethersfield former RAF base, the atmosphere in town centers changes. Allegations include women being told to 'cover up,' girls being filmed, and groups of young men engaging in staring, making comments, and intimidating locals. Some residents claim that women and families are now avoiding town centers altogether due to these issues.
Elena Sokolova, a migrant who has integrated into British life, stated that the men "don't integrate in society" and "have their own culture." Sophie Edmonds, a shop worker, described experiencing "big issues" with migrant men and now avoids walking alone in Colchester, finding the staring and comments intimidating. She believes the town is less busy as a result, with people choosing to shop elsewhere to avoid feeling unsafe.
Locals in Chelmsford expressed relief and joy at the new patrols. John Howes, 66, said his wife and daughter are now afraid to enter the town center. Lea Sessions, 59, reported feeling intimidated and aware of reports of migrants following women. Lee Summers, 45, noted the lack of police presence and welcomed the additional security, though he questioned why the situation had escalated to this point.
The private security guards are employed by My Local Bobby, a company founded by former Metropolitan Police detective chief inspector David Mckelvey. Mckelvey stated that the patrols aim to make people "safer and feel safer" and provide reassurance.
The asylum accommodation is located at the former RAF Wethersfield airfield, approximately 15 miles away. The Home Office operates minibuses to transport residents of the Wethersfield site into Colchester, Braintree, and Chelmsford for access to services not available on-site. The site, which began accommodating single adult men aged 18-65 in July 2023, is operated by Clearsprings Ready Homes on behalf of the Home Office. The Home Office plans to increase the site's capacity from 800 to 1,245 residents and continue its operation beyond 2027.
Essex County Council leader Peter Harris has accused the government of shifting the consequences of its asylum policy onto local communities. Colchester City Council has acknowledged the need for additional resources but clarified that the transport arrangements are a Home Office decision. Braintree District Council has also criticized the planned expansion, citing a lack of infrastructure at the rural site. The Home Office maintains that the Wethersfield site provides managed accommodation to reduce reliance on hotels and ensures public safety through 24-hour security and engagement with authorities.