Hambleton District Council has announced it is preparing a legal challenge to the government’s plans for a centre for asylum seekers at Linton-on-Ouse.
The Government wants to house 1,500 people at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, however council chiefs have criticised the plans over a lack of consultation.
Dr Justin Ives, the council’s chief executive, said: “As I’m sure you can imagine, my team has been working tirelessly, since the Government announced their plans for a centre for asylum seekers at Linton-on-Ouse, to fully understand the proposals and potential ramifications from both a local authority and the local community’s perspective.
“We have also been carefully listening to what local communities have been saying about the potential impact on Linton-on-Ouse, surrounding communities and our district in general.
“We now understand from subsequent conversations this week, that the Government has every intention of pressing ahead with the plans. In response to this, Hambleton District Council has instructed lawyers to start work on mounting a legal challenge of the Government’s decision.
“As the local authority, we are extremely disappointed by the lack of consultation and involvement on this so far and have made this clear to Government during our discussions.”
The council boss said the authority was supporting those in the local community who have raised concerns about the plans.
“I want to be very clear that the council is fully committed to working with and supporting the local community of Linton-on-Ouse, as well as other surrounding communities going forward.
“I know there are great concerns about this proposal and the lack of consultation, but we as a council are determined to take whatever course of action is required to secure the best possible outcome for our district.”
The proposal is part of the Government’s new migration policy, which also includes sending some asylum seekers to Rwanda.
The men, aged between 18 and 40, will be housed at the base while their applications to stay in the UK are processed.
Residents have expressed concerns about the impact on services in the area and their safety.
The Home Office has previously said services provided on site would “minimise” the impact on the local community.
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