Tim McNally says Piddington will bring legal challenge over asylum base plans for 1,256 men

Challenge plans for the site

Tim McNally, chairman of Piddington Parish Council, said opponents may take legal action over the accommodation plans. Asked on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme whether ministers should prepare for a challenge, he replied, “Absolutely, absolutely.” Those opposing the decision have six weeks to challenge it. McNally also said the village could consider using the new Hillsborough Law, and indicated further actions would be announced later.

Permission and objections

The approved plans cover a former military site near Piddington, close to Bicester. They allow existing buildings to be demolished and new modular accommodation to be built, alongside health and welfare facilities.

The site could house up to 1,256 men. A government report counted 3,177 submissions against the decision and one in favour.

Government says decision remains open

A Home Office spokesperson said planning permission lets the department continue developing the site’s possible use, but the government has not made a final decision to proceed. The wider policy includes ending the use of asylum hotels and moving people to other accommodation, including former military sites.

Defence minister Luke Pollard told LBC that residents around Bicester, particularly in Piddington, had strong feelings about the proposal. He said further stages remained and that officials could examine concerns and ways to reduce them.

Political criticism of proposal

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticised the plans, describing them as a “betrayal of the women of Piddington.” She also accused the government of disregarding the community’s concerns and the safety of women and girls. The government has previously described the proposed accommodation as basic and safe. The article also quotes McNally referring to remarks by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, but gives no further detail about how those comments relate to the village’s response.