Protest Against Asylum Centre at Historical RAF Base
Sarah Carter, a resident and protest group leader, has initiated a crucial protest by setting up a camp outside the RAF Scampton, opposing the Home Office's plans of converting the historic RAF base into an asylum centre. The leader of 'Save Our Scampton' plans to reside there for an undisclosed span of time.
Concerns over Asylum Centre
The Home Office intends to steadily increase the count of asylum seekers accommodated at RAF Scampton, with a total expectation of around 2,000; the first batch is scheduled to arrive this autumn. The proposal, however, has stimulated a substantial amount of disapproval from local residents, infuriated by continued work in the base, despite West Lindsey District Council's stop notice issued recently.
Protester's Stand
In an explanation of her actions, Sarah Carter said, "Up until a few days ago it was planned that people were going to move in tomorrow. As they haven't made the site safe and secure for the children and families, we need to be keeping an eye on when they do move people in. Now that there's a stop notice, there shouldn't be anyone coming or going. Anyone that is coming on site is getting reported to the council."
Ms Carter also expressed gratitude for the extensive support received from the local community and passers-by. "I've cried several times already. People have been coming and giving me a hug and I've never met them. Everyone has been so lovely and bringing biscuits, it's been quite overwhelming."
Judicial Review Pending
West Lindsey District Council will raise their objections against the conversion of the airbase in the High Court of London on October 31 and November 1, arguing the site's unsuitability for the scheme. Ms Carter further expressed, "We're here to try and delay things until the judicial review when we win, and then we can start waving [the Home Office] off as they leave the camp."
Home Office's Response
Despite the uproar, the Home Office defends their project stating it ensures providing basic, safe, secure, and economical accommodation for the newly arrived asylum seekers. This, according to them, is a better alternative than using hotels for the same.
Moreover, these plans have sabotaged the £300 million enterprise, tourism and heritage project led by Scampton Holdings Ltd expected to usher in many job opportunities to the region.