UK Government Considers MoD Bicester for Asylum Housing

The UK Home Office is conducting feasibility assessments to determine if the former MoD Bicester site can be used to house 1,250 male asylum seekers. Minister for Border Security and Asylum Anna Turley informed the Bicester Town Council that a final decision may take several months to complete, though some activity on the site may be visible during this period.

As part of the process, the government submitted an urgent crown development planning application to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Turley stated that the application allows planning issues to be considered but does not predetermine the outcome. If the site is approved for use, it will include 24/7 security, CCTV, and a specialist management provider. The government has pledged funding support for local police forces and affected councils.

Local opposition has emerged, led by Reform Bicester councillor Ian Hodgson, who raised concerns about the impact of housing a large number of young men near the town.