Understand
Linton-on-Ouse asylum centre could cost £270m, campaigners claim
Overview
Campaigners opposing plans for an asylum centre at the former RAF base in Linton-on-Ouse have written to the Chancellor calling for a full financial review, claiming the project could cost taxpayers up to £270m. The Linton-on-Ouse Action Group argues that the facility could cost significantly more per bed than housing asylum seekers in hotels and questions the value for money given a potential site return deadline of July 2029. In response, the Home Office states that its plans to move people into alternative accommodation, including former military sites, are saving taxpayers money.
Key points
- The Linton-on-Ouse Action Group has urged a government investigation, claiming a proposed asylum centre could cost £270m over a 23-month period.
- Campaigners estimate the facility could cost between £443 and £853 per occupied bed per night, compared to a hotel benchmark of £144.98.
- Concerns have been raised regarding value for money given that the site may have to be returned to the Ministry of Defence by July 2029.
- The Home Office defended its approach, stating that moving asylum seekers into alternative accommodation and closing hotels is saving taxpayers money.