Immigration centre plan 'intensifying' public concern

The proposed expansion of an immigration centre "risks perpetuating and intensifying" public concern around the site, a local authority has said.

Oxfordshire County Council has written to the Planning Inspectorate to object to plans to expand the Campsfield Immigration Removal Centre near Kidlington.

The Home Office is proposing to increase the centre's capacity from 160 bed spaces to 400, and convert existing buildings.

Campsfield reopened in December after it was shut in 2018 following years of problems, including riots, escapes and complaints about conditions.

In his letter to the Planning Inspectorate, deputy leader of the council Neil Fawcett said: "Campsfield House has long been the subject of significant public concern and sustained local opposition."

"The proposed expansion risks perpetuating and intensifying those concerns, making additional support for Thames Valley Police necessary to maintain public safety," he added.

The Home Office submitted its plans to expand Campsfield in June, with the Planning Inspector confirming in August that the proposals would follow an inquiry procedure.

"All Crown Development planning applications require extensive engagement, and a public inquiry of this kind is a standard part of the process," the Home Office said following the announcement of the public inquiry.

"We encourage residents and stakeholders to share their views through the formal process."

It said since the 2024 general election, it had "returned or deported over 80,000 individuals" including more than 11,000 "foreign national offenders".

Investments like Campsfield were "essential to continue ramping up these removals", it added.

The government previously said Campsfield had undergone a £70m refurbishment and was "redeveloped to high security standards".

The centre has been subject to opposition from MPs, residents and charities over the years, with campaigners describing it as an "appalling" place.

Fawcett said in his letter to the Planning Inspectorate that the council "believes that people seeking sanctuary should be treated with dignity and humanity".

"National policy should focus on safe and legal routes, timely and fair decision making and appropriate support rather than increased reliance on immigration detention," he added.