Residents near the former military base RAF Barnham in Suffolk have voiced strong opposition to potential plans to house 1,250 asylum seekers at the site, fearing a significant disruption to their small community. The proposal, revealed by the Home Office on June 25, aims to relocate asylum seekers from hotels to military sites, including RAF Barnham, Bicester in Oxfordshire, and Linton-on-Ouse in North Yorkshire.
Fears in Barnham, a village with a current population of approximately 580 people, center on the potential for the influx to more than triple the local population. Residents have expressed concerns about increased anti-social behavior, risks to women and children, and a potential decrease in property values. The village currently lacks basic amenities such as a local shop or pub.
Callum Banthorpe, a 23-year-old who recently purchased a home in the village, cited a lack of infrastructure to support such a sudden population increase. He worried about the presence of asylum seekers in the wider area, noting that the village has limited facilities.
Opposition has manifested in public protests, with two large gatherings held outside the gates of RAF Barnham. Local officials have also expressed concerns. Parish, district, and county councillors have publicly opposed the plans. A spokesperson for West Suffolk Council indicated that the government might bypass local planning consent for the migrant housing.
Concerns have also been raised about the suitability of the site, with some residents noting that parts of the base were previously deemed contaminated. A local business owner suggested that placing asylum seekers in an area with a significant population of UK service personnel could create further tension.
Retired toxicologist Steven Beck highlighted concerns about the strain on local services such as doctors' and dentists' appointments. He questioned the vetting process for asylum seekers and suggested that the remote location might not be ideal for their integration.
Councillors at a West Suffolk Council meeting unanimously agreed that RAF Barnham was an unsuitable location due to concerns regarding security, community impact, and inadequate facilities. John Bauer, chairman of Barnham Parish Council, emphasized that a conventional development of this scale would necessitate extensive consultation and infrastructure planning.
Ricky Taylor, who runs a local business, expressed frustration, stating that taxpayer money should prioritize residents' needs. He also referenced issues experienced at the asylum seeker accommodation in RAF Wethersfield, Essex, as a cautionary example.
Residents in nearby Thetford also expressed apprehension, particularly regarding increased foot traffic across Barnham Common, a popular local amenity. Teresa Deacon voiced concerns about safety, especially during winter evenings, and the potential intimidation for children and other vulnerable individuals.
During a recent Thetford Town Council meeting discussing the issue, local attendees overwhelmed the venue, leading to tense exchanges. Councillors stated they had received minimal information from the Home Office and agreed to convey their concerns to the government.