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Groundwork at RAF Scampton Sparks Concern Over Neglected Halt Notice

Groundwork at RAF Scampton Sparks Concern Over Neglected Halt Notice

Concerns Over Groundwork at RAF Scampton Despite Temporary Stop Notice

In recent developments, groundwork equipment has been spotted on the premises of RAF Scampton. Observations from an aerial perspective suggest that groundwork and utility installations are still being carried out in anticipation of migrant arrivals later this month. The sight has sparked concerns that the Home Office may be overlooking the terms of a temporary halt notice.

Council Allegations of Ignored Halt Notice

West Lindsey District Council enforced a stop notice on September 8, intending to halt such works. However, Council leader Trevor Young has expressed belief that the notice has been disregarded. He voiced his concerns about the impact of the unnoticed groundwork, saying: "We believe that ground works have been completed since the stop notice was issued and the council is incredibly concerned about the irreversible impact of this."

Disagreements over Compliance to the Notice

Pointing to the restriction in provisions to only listed buildings, intrusive surveys, groundwork, and installation of fencing and utilities under section 171E of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Young added "We will visit the site every day to take a record and have agreed they will meet an officer on site later in the week."

When questioned about these allegations, the Home Office sidestepped the issue and reiterated their confidence in their compliance with planning regulations. However, assurance over the adherence to the halt notice has been lacking from both sides. Sally Grindrod-Smith, the council's director of planning, regeneration, and communities, has previously stated she is unsure if the notice is being obeyed.

Local Residents Worried Over The Activities

Local resident Sarah Carter, leader of the Save Our Scampton campaign, echoed a similar sentiment: "We don’t know if they are adhering to the notice because they are allowed to do certain works... But how do we know that what they’re doing doesn’t involve those particular works?"

Home Office Response

In a full statement, a spokesperson from the Home Office emphasized the economy and orderliness of utilizing surplus military sites. The spokesperson said: "Delivering accommodation on surplus military sites provides cheaper and more orderly, suitable accommodation for those arriving in small boats whilst helping to reduce the use of hotels... We are confident our project, which will house asylum seekers in basic, safe and secure accommodation, meets the planning requirements."