The UK Government has responded to objections regarding proposals to establish an asylum facility at a decommissioned military installation near Bicester.
Anna Turley, who serves as Minister for Border Security and Asylum, communicated with Bicester Town Council regarding blueprint to accommodate as many as 1,256 individuals seeking asylum at the former armed forces location adjacent to the town.
The correspondence, dated October 19, conveyed the minister’s awareness of the depth of sentiment expressed by residents of Bicester and neighbouring areas.
In correspondence addressed to the town’s first citizen, Dr Paul Wheatley, the minister clarified that determination of the planning submission rests with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, functioning as the independent planning authority.
The minister indicated that it would be unsuitable for the Home Office to intervene in matters pertaining to the development control process and highlighted that the period for public representation had concluded on September 17.
In additional correspondence directed to the council’s interim town clerk Paul Canning, Turley attempted to address community anxieties regarding security implications and demands on local provision.
She maintained that the redundant defence estate would deliver fundamental, secure lodging intended to function with independence to limit consequences for neighbouring populations.
The Home Office additionally confirmed that a dedicated professional security operation would maintain continuous vigilance throughout every day of the week, supplemented by closed-circuit television observation and documentation apparatus.
Evaluation of the site’s appropriateness continues and encompasses examination of security, operational criteria, planning factors and possible effects upon community facilities and local residents.
Authorities indicated they maintain routine collaboration with municipal bodies, law enforcement and partner organisations in administering asylum housing locations and pledged sustained partnership with councils, healthcare providers, emergency responders and elected members should the initiative proceed.
Addressing the council’s apprehensions about consequences for adjacent neighbourhoods, the minister confirmed that the Home Office was analysing ramifications for local services, physical infrastructure and communities during the continuing appraisal, including potential effects extending beyond the local authority perimeter, with further consultation planned as the assessment advances.
The minister expressed appreciation for ongoing exchange with the council as scheme development continues.
Preceding this correspondence, the council had voiced criticism of the Home Office and Home Secretary following allegations that official communications despatched in July had received no response despite petitions for comprehensive particulars concerning the scheme.
The municipal authority expressed strong disappointment that neither the Home Secretary nor the Home Office had acknowledged or responded to formal correspondence about the proposed asylum accommodation centre at MOD Bicester Site A.
The municipal authority maintained its dedication to productive participation and pledged vigilant observation of developments alongside pursuit of a reply through available avenues.