ITV Meridian has reported on Cherwell District Council’s formal objection to Government plans to accommodate up to 1,256 male asylum seekers at MOD Bicester Site A near Piddington.
According to ITV, the council criticised what it described as “unresolved ambiguity” in the planning application, saying the Government had submitted more of a “concept” than a “sufficiently defined full development”. It said important details remain unresolved and warned that claimed urgency does not justify avoidable risks to occupiers, local communities or the environment.
The council raised concerns over wastewater, surface-water flooding, ecology, access arrangements and the wider impact on the local community. It also called for further assessment of potential asbestos-containing materials and unexploded ordnance associated with the former military site.
ITV also reports that a draft Thames Valley Police response included in the council’s objection warned that the entrance could become a focus for protest activity and raised concerns around privacy, filming, harassment and hostile attention because of the site’s proximity to the B4011.
Cherwell District Council stressed that its objection is based on the suitability of the land and the level of detail provided in the application, rather than the identity or status of the people who may be accommodated there. The Home Office told ITV that it is working with local authorities and police forces as part of its plans to move asylum seekers out of hotels and into alternative accommodation.
