Understand
Call for clarity on Linton-on-Ouse asylum centre timescale
Overview
Local leaders and campaigners in North Yorkshire are seeking urgent clarification from the Home Office regarding the proposed timeline for using the former RAF Linton-on-Ouse site as an asylum seeker accommodation centre. Officials indicated the site could return to the Ministry of Defence for housing development by July 2029, prompting concerns from the Linton-on-Ouse Action Group about the operational viability and potential high costs per night given the shortened active window.
Key points
- Government officials indicated the former RAF Linton-on-Ouse site could be returned to the Ministry of Defence by July 2029 for redevelopment.
- A letter from Home Office minister Anna Turley stated the site would house asylum seekers for 'a minimum of three years' if taken forward.
- North Yorkshire deputy mayor Jo Coles has written to the Home Office requesting confirmation of the 2029 timescale and decommissioning period.
- The Home Office maintains that no final decision has been made regarding the future use of the site.
- Campaigners from the Linton-on-Ouse Action Group argue that a July 2029 deadline reduces the operational window, potentially raising costs significantly per asylum seeker per night.