RAF Scampton asylum-seekers to be relocated from Kent detention centre

The Home Office has informed West Lindsey Council about a change in the asylum-seeker proposal for the site following a ministerial decision.

Initially, the plan for the migrant camp was expected to alleviate the strain being put on hotels in coastal towns such as Skegness.

However, the revised strategy involves utilising the camp in conjunction with the existing hotel accommodation.

Coun Trevor Young, newly-elected council leader, said: “It appears the Home Office does not have a clear and deliverable plan for accommodating asylum seekers at RAF Scampton.

“Initially, we were told the site would be up and running by April. We are now three months in and there is still no delivery plan.

“We firmly believe this is because you cannot make RAF Scampton safe for the purpose of housing asylum-seekers.”

The Liberal Democrat member for Gainsborough South West has reaffirmed his party’s commitment to opposing the controversial plans.

The council will proceed with its judicial review on July 12 and 13, taking the matter to the High Court once again.

Coun Young said: “We recognise there are still many unanswered questions about these proposals and ongoing concerns within the community.

“We are doing all we can behind the scenes and continue to stress the importance to the Home Office of them keeping residents and businesses updated on their asylum centre plans for RAF Scampton.

“We are continuing to press the Home Office for more details, including urging them to engage proactively and honestly with our community and we will continue to keep residents updated.

“While we fundamentally oppose the use of RAF Scampton as an asylum centre, it is important we prepare to support our community and any asylum-seekers should our legal proceedings not be successful.

“We are continuing to work with our partners including healthcare providers, police, fire and social services, to plan for this to ensure any provision is safe, legal and compliant and mitigates any pressure on local services and the impact on the community.”