UK Government to House Asylum Seekers in Old Military Bases
The UK government has unveiled plans to move asylum seekers into disused military bases to slash soaring accommodation costs. Each site will hold between 1,500 and 2,000 migrants. This comes as the government currently spends a staggering £6.2 million daily on hotels for over 51,000 asylum seekers across 400 hotels nationwide.
Ex-Military Sites Set to Become New Migrant Housing
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick announced the scheme on Wednesday. He stated accommodation for illegal migrants should “meet their essential living needs” and “nothing more.” Former military locations set to be used include RAF Wethersfield in Essex, RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire, Northeye in East Sussex, and barracks at Catterick Garrison.
Jenrick made it clear these bases will house new arrivals, not relocate those already in hotels. Speaking in the Commons, he said:
“Today the Government is announcing the first tranche of sites we will set up to provide basic accommodation at scale. These will be scaled up over the coming months and will collectively provide accommodation to several thousands asylum seekers through repurposed barrack blocks and portacabins.”
He added the new facilities “will not end the use of hotels overnight” but aim to “relieve pressure on our communities and manage asylum seekers in a more appropriate and cost-effective way.”
Local Concerns Spark Mixed Reactions
The announcement has received mixed reactions. Some critics worry about living conditions at the old military sites and potential impacts on local communities.
Bexhill MP Huw Merriman responded to the news that Northeye, a former training centre in East Sussex, has been chosen:
“I know that this decision will have an impact on local authorities and public services. It will also be of great concern to local residents. It is important that the community is fully appraised of the proposals and reassured as to the impact.”
He revealed plans to meet Immigration Minister Jenrick and Home Office officials to discuss local concerns and explore ways to support the town and its residents, promising to push for necessary resources and safeguards.
Councils Promise Scrutiny and Local Support
East Sussex County Council and Rother District Council issued a joint statement acknowledging community questions about the asylum plans for Northeye, a former prison and training centre.
They vowed to collaborate with local partners and the government to assess the impact in detail, sharing findings with the Home Office to ensure all issues raised are addressed.
