UK government plans to house asylum seekers at former military bases

The UK government is proceeding with plans to house up to 1,200 male asylum seekers at three former military bases located in Oxfordshire, North Yorkshire, and Suffolk. The initiative aims to reduce the asylum system's reliance on expensive hotel accommodations.

Local communities have expressed significant concern regarding the proximity of these sites to sensitive locations. At RAF Linton-on-Ouse in North Yorkshire, the base is situated within a mile of a primary school, a nursery, and a children's play area. In a village of approximately 600 residents, the arrival of 1,200 men would create a six-to-one male-to-female ratio.

In Suffolk, RAF Barnham is proposed to accommodate as many as 1,250 asylum seekers. Local officials, including Barnham parish council chairman John Bauer, have noted that some parents are considering withdrawing children from local schools due to the proximity of the site. A third site near Piddington in Oxfordshire is located adjacent to a children's play area. Critics argue the locations may conflict with Home Office guidance regarding housing near schools and may strain local infrastructure, including water, sewage, and electricity capacities.