RAF Scampton Conversion into Migrant Facility Continues Despite Objections, Claims Council
Development work at the historic RAF Scampton is reportedly ongoing, contrary to previous assurances from the Home Office to stop, according to West Lindsey District Council. The council issued a second stop notice on September 22, directing the Home Office and its workers to cease all operations on the site.
On October 3, government officials had allegedly confirmed in writing that the work had been halted in compliance with the order. The council, however, insists that it's clear that activities have persisted undeterred.
"It is understood that the Home Office has been considering the implications of the stop notice and was weighing up the implications,"
A Home Office representative had earlier expressed confidence in the project, assuring it met all necessary planning requirements for providing "basic, safe and secure" accommodations for asylum seekers.
Efforts to Block Conversion
In an attempt to halt the conversion process, the council has introduced stringent rules. The stop notice, fastened to the entrance gate of the former Dambusters' base, prohibits any "material change of use" without proper planning permission. It categorically states that the site shouldn't be converted into asylum seeker accommodation and urges the removal of any present asylum seekers.
Additional stern stipulations include halting all groundworks and the installation of portacabins. The historic airbase must be reverted to its previous state.
Inadequate Response from Home Office
According to the council, the Home Office, yet to contest the stop notice or an enforcement notice, hasn’t provided any reason for the apparent continuation of works. The notice will stay in effect until properly complied with, the council warned.
Upon completion of the plans, the base is designed to accommodate up to 2,000 male asylum seekers for durations of up to nine months. Despite conjectures, a representative assured that the asylum seekers would essentially remain within the base, though they aren’t restricted from leaving.
With a judicial review slated for October 31 and November 1, the council awaits the High Court’s decision. Meanwhile, the Home Office remains silent on concerns regarding legal implications and continues in its efforts to facilitate the movements of the proposed 2,000 men to the site by the close of 2023.