Government planning permission granted for Bicester asylum centre plans despite 3,177 objections

Permission for former military site

The approved development is at a former military site near Piddington in Oxfordshire. Government plans would accommodate up to 1,256 men there. The permission covers demolition of existing buildings and construction of modular accommodation, alongside health and welfare facilities. The government report recorded 3,177 representations against the proposal and one in support.

Local opposition and criticism

Piddington residents have opposed the plans. Villagers overwhelmingly voted in a symbolic referendum to become an independent state, while the village also symbolically voted to leave the UK.

Legal challenge and next steps

Campaigners have legally challenged the plans, and the permission was granted despite complaints being lodged with the High Court. The approval could be challenged through a High Court application within six weeks, starting the day after the decision.

Reform UK home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf described the proposed residents as “Over 1,200 unvetted illegal migrant men”. A Home Office spokesperson said a final decision to proceed had not been taken, and said the government planned to close all asylum hotels and use alternative accommodation, including former military sites.