In the press:

August 12, 2026

Picnics and dog shows: how one village is opposing asylum centre plan

The Times visited Piddington to look at how residents are responding to the Government’s plans for MOD Bicester Site A.

The article focuses on the community’s peaceful approach to opposing the proposal, including events such as picnics and other fundraising ideas, while highlighting concerns about the scale and suitability of the site.

Residents discuss worries around safety, the rural location, lack of infrastructure and the impact that accommodating up to 1,250 single adult men could have on surrounding communities.

The article also covers Piddington’s symbolic independence referendum and the wider national attention being given to the proposal.

More press stories
Cherwell Council says MOD Bicester asylum plans pose ‘avoidable’ risks
ITV Meridian reports that Cherwell District Council has formally objected to the MOD Bicester Site A proposal, warning of unresolved issues around ecology, flooding, access, contamination and community impact.
Cherwell council objects to Bicester asylum camp plans
The Bicester Advertiser reports that Cherwell District Council has formally objected to the MOD Bicester Site A proposal, raising concerns over transport, infrastructure, drainage, ecology, site safety and the limited consultation period.
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More news

Is the Government risking a wildlife crime at MOD Bicester?

Is the Government risking a wildlife crime at MOD Bicester?

Fresh evidence of bat activity at MOD Bicester Site A is raising serious questions about the Government’s ecological surveys and the use of powerful floodlights over the weekend.
Floodlights return for second night at MOD Bicester Site A

Floodlights return for second night at MOD Bicester Site A

Floodlights were reportedly switched on again at MOD Bicester Site A on Saturday night, prompting fresh concern over the potential impact on bats and other nocturnal wildlife.
Overnight floodlighting at MOD Bicester Site A raises fresh questions over impact on bats

Overnight floodlighting at MOD Bicester Site A raises fresh questions over impact on bats

Bright floodlights were seen illuminating MOD Bicester Site A for several hours overnight, raising fresh questions about their potential impact on bats while the adequacy of the site’s ecological assessment is already under legal challenge.
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