Scampton Locals Fear Being 'Isolated' Due to Asylum Seeker Housing Plans
Residents living close by the former RAF Scampton base are expressing fear of becoming "isolated", as Home Office proceeds with plans to house 2,000 asylum seekers at the site. Despite orders from West Lindsey District Council (WLDC) to halt the site prep work for the incoming migrants, the Home Office is openly expressing confidence about the project.
Site Prep Underway Despite Opposition
On a routine site visit on October 13, WLDC officials discovered that extensive preparations had commenced, albeit with no confirmed date for the asylum seekers' arrival. A fraction of the concerned locals include elderly and vulnerable individuals, as well as children attending nearby schools.
The Home Office has acknowledged these anxieties, stating it "understands the concerns" and is continuing to engage with the local community.
"It drips with complete disregard to the 700-odd people that live here and we are being held in limbo," voiced Rachael Green, 58-year-old Scampton resident of 22 years. She is particularly worried about the many elderly residents and potential incidents on the dangerous local road, the A15. She also expressed her concerns about the impact of a sudden influx of 2,000 men from different backgrounds on the small community.
Residents Alarmed Over Potential Impact
Another 22-year Scampton dweller, Theresa Williams, 54, feels the government's decision puts their lives in danger. She fears this will negatively affect their livelihoods and safety, especially as their local shop has shut down, leaving many vulnerable locals, including a large proportion of elderly people.
"Whatever time I have left to live I wanted peace and not be worried that I can't afford to move somewhere else. We are law-abiding citizens only to be battered, isolated, and forced to stay in our own homes. I will be petrified to leave my house," said Mrs. Williams, who is currently undergoing breast cancer treatment.
Another longtime resident chose to remain anonymous but shared that fear and anxiety over the migrants' arrival dominated her thoughts.
Dread Over Potential Impact on Local Real Estate, Heritage Sites
Another anonymous resident expressed concern over how this might affect the housing market and mentioned a nearby school, although also believed it would be protected. They mentioned that while they concur with the need for refugees to find a place to live, Scampton might not be the ideal location due to its heritage value and the lack of communication with locals about these plans.
Home Office Promises Ongoing Communication, Onsite Security
The Home Office responded saying it is currently listening to the local communities' views and working on reducing the sites' impact. This includes providing onsite security and financial support. Local councils are also being consulted to manage the potential impact of employing the site, with local police liaisons in place.