Judicial Review Examines Plan to House Migrants at RAF Scampton
Residents living in the vicinity of the former RAF Scampton base are expressing concerns regarding plans by the Home Office to house up to 2,000 migrants at the site. The proposal is currently being scrutinised during a two-day judicial review at the London High Court involving West Lindsey District Council (WLDC). The council has denounced the scheme as "unlawful."
The RAF Scampton base located neighbour to a camp that accommodates around 690 individuals, with facilities including a school and a nursery. Residents have reportedly observed preparations being made at the abandoned base for the housing of migrants. This is against two stop notices issued by WLDC in an attempt to curtail such activities.
Plans for Housing Migrants Labelled "Less Than Ideal" by Locals
The judicial review began on Tuesday, October 31 and is scheduled to extend into Wednesday, November 1. Council executives are putting forward the notion that the plans to accommodate migrants at the RAF base "should be quashed." The council had been planning to convert the derelict base into a heritage center in alignment with a £300 million investment plan.
"We are hoping the judge decides that the Home Office has acted unlawfully and the proceedings to put it in place are stopped. Scampton is a lovely place to live but it's about to get a lot more concerning," said Chris Bulteel, chair of Scampton Parish council and local resident of 13 years.
This sentiment was echoed amongst other local residents. Lesley Stanley, resident for one year, expressed her concern particularly with regards to her children, while Scampton resident Rachael Green shared her feelings of worry and distraction. Tony Somerville, a resident of three and a half years, voiced his hope that the concerns of the local council will be heard.
Protest Against Housing Migrants
Protests against the proposal are also happening, with Gary Cook, a Lincoln resident, being a daily fixture at the main gate since July. He is calling for RAF Scampton to become a heritage centre, saying it represents local heritage and life. Other protestors have raised safety concerns, referencing the proximity of the school to the proposed housing site for asylum seekers.