CAMPAIGNERS were arrested for occupying a council house in protest against it being sold off by auction on Saturday.

The Housing Rebellion said two of their members were taken on charges of “aggravated trespass” for their action in Battle, East Sussex.

Activists occupied the property, which they said is on track to be sold by housing association Southern Housing, in support of a mum and her two children who have been in temporary accommodation for two and a half years.

Cheryl Smart applied to move to the three-bed home in Wellington Gardens after the previous resident, her great aunt, passed away — but the housing association had different plans.

“We know there are thousands of people living in temporary accommodation or who are in overcrowded flats,” said Grace Lally, who was arrested.

“We’re not prepared to stand by and let Southern Housing sell our social housing.”

Southern Housing said: “This particular home is currently empty, and following a detailed assessment, we found it would require a very high level of investment to meet current and future safety and sustainability standards.

“At a time when our priority must be improving the homes residents are already living in, this level of investment in a single property is not financially responsible.

“For that reason, we have taken the difficult decision to sell the home. Decisions like this are never made lightly. Every penny from the sale will be reinvested directly into our homes and services so we can continue providing safe, comfortable places to live for as many residents as possible.

“We’re aware of recent activity at the property, including the removal of individuals who entered without permission. We’re grateful for the swift response from the police. While we understand the strength of feeling around housing, unlawful entry does not support the provision of safe, secure and affordable homes.

“We’ve also seen claims that a family has been identified to move into the home. Social housing does not work this way. Local Authorities are responsible for nominating people in the greatest need, based on strict eligibility and property-suitability criteria.”