Planning permission has been granted to convert a former military site near Piddington, Oxfordshire, into accommodation for asylum seekers. The Home Office’s application to house up to 1,256 men at the MoD Bicester facility was processed via an Urgent Crown Development application, expediting the approval.
Local opposition was highlighted by a symbolic vote in Piddington to leave the UK, and campaigners have initiated legal challenges against the plan. A Home Office representative noted that the permission enables further development, though a final decision on the proposal is still pending.
According to a government report, the decision attracted 3,177 representations against it, with only one in support. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner endorsed the approval, stating that the national need for asylum accommodation remains critical.
The granted permission encompasses the demolition of existing buildings, construction of new modular units, and establishment of health and welfare facilities. Chris Philp, Shadow Home Secretary, condemned the decision, arguing that the Labour government has betrayed the local community by misusing emergency powers and advocating for withdrawal from the ECHR to facilitate deportations.
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