Home Office 'Confident' in Plans to House Asylum Seekers at RAF Scampton
Despite facing severe criticism and alleged breach of stop notices from the West Lindsey District Council (WLDC), the Home Office insists on its plan to accommodate up to 2,000 male asylum seekers at former RAF base RAF Scampton.
Alleged Unlawful Development Continues
The Home Office's plans have met resistance from the WLDC, which claims the "unlawful development" is still underway at the site. The council reveals that the local community has inundated them with instances of ongoing work, allegedly including an increase in portacabins, refurbishment to existing buildings and a confirmation of gas supply to support the portacabin development.
"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," a Home Office spokesperson stated. "We are confident our project, which will house asylum seekers in basic, safe and secure accommodation, meets the planning requirements."
Home Office Aware of WLDC Stop Notice
Acknowledging the stop notice issued by the WLDC, the Home Office asserts that it is "carefully considering" the implications. The government body also announced that WLDC will receive £3,500 for each occupied bed on the site.
Forthcoming High Court Challenge
However, the Home Office's plan will face a challenge from WLDC and Braintree District Council in the High Court in London on October 31, 2023.
Council Leaders Express Displeasure
"It is clear from our most recent site visit that despite repeated assurances, the Home Office have breached the Stop Notice and continued with the unlawful development of the site at RAF Scampton. The council continues to be inundated with intelligence from the community regarding daily activity and we cannot thank the community enough for their ongoing support through this difficult time," expressed Councillor Trevor Young, leader of West Lindsey District Council.
Future Plans for the Site
Prior to the Home Office's plans, WLDC had an agreement to transform the 800-acre site into a heritage centre. Nevertheless, the Home Office maintains that it "recognises its responsibilities" to preserve and protect the heritage assets at the site, promising operational management plans and security to support this.
District Council Disappointed with Lack of Action
WLDC’s director of planning, regeneration and communities, Sally Grindrod-Smith, communicated her frustration on the matter. She hinted at the limitations tied with the site being 'Crown Land', which prevents a local council from pursuing physical enforcement action.
"It has been an incredibly frustrating and worrying time for our community. We have had many messages from concerned residents reporting ongoing activity and seeking to understand why the council and the police are not taking further action to stop works on site. The Home Office have not challenged the legality of the Stop Notice; however, it is clear they have not adhered to it."