Furious villagers in Wethersfield, Essex, are preparing legal action against the Home Office over proposed plans to expand the number of asylum seekers housed at a former airfield by more than 60 percent. The current facility, RAF Wethersfield, which began housing migrants in June 2023, is slated to increase its capacity from 766 to 1,245 individuals and remain operational beyond its initial 2027 end date.
Residents argue that the expansion will lead to them being outnumbered by the camp's inhabitants and have described their lives since the site opened as "hell." Concerns cited include antisocial behavior, noise disturbances, and instances of migrants defecating in nearby fields. Samantha Clarke-Holland, who lives near the airfield, reported that her property's value has diminished significantly, with the house being taken off the market after failing to attract any viewings.
"We're being punished because they cannot stop the route problem, which is the boats in the first place," Clarke-Holland stated, expressing her willingness to pursue further legal action. She intends to challenge a Special Development Order that grants temporary planning permission and bypasses local council authority.
Other residents share similar sentiments. Simone Sutcliffe and John Adams, an elderly couple living opposite the site, reported being woken by noise from the camp and staff vehicles. Alex Mason, a local builder, voiced frustration over what he perceives as a disregard for taxpayers and a lack of consequences for illegal immigration. "It's hell here. The migrants outnumber us," he said.
Councillor Peter Harris, Leader of Essex County Council, has criticized the expansion, stating, "Enough is enough. We are not a dumping ground for the result of a failing asylum system." He highlighted concerns that the increased presence of asylum seekers will strain local resources, including policing, public health, and mental health services, as individuals from the camp are bussed to nearby towns.
The government's move to increase capacity at Wethersfield comes as part of a broader strategy to close asylum hotels. Ministers announced the closure of 20 such hotels last month, aiming to save taxpayers an estimated £170 million this financial year. Home Office figures indicate that the number of asylum seekers housed in hotels has fallen to its lowest level since 2022, with 20,885 people in hotel accommodation at the end of March, a 35 percent decrease year-on-year.
Previous plans to house asylum seekers at RAF Linton-on-Ouse were abandoned in 2022 following public outcry and legal challenges. The Home Office has been contacted for comment regarding the Wethersfield expansion.