The government has faced severe criticism over a proposal to house up to 500 asylum seekers in temporary cabin-style accommodation on former Ministry of Defence land near the village of Barton Stacey in Hampshire. The site, close to the A303 trunk road, has been described by local leaders as an inappropriate location akin to an open prison.
Conservative leader of Test Valley Council, Phil North, expressed strong opposition, stating that the temporary buildings offer little more than basic dining and recreation facilities. He warned that occupants would likely attempt to access the A303 on foot, posing a significant highway danger, and that an influx of 500 young men would have an overwhelmingly detrimental impact on a village with a population of just 1,000.
The proposal follows a series of damning reports on conditions at two former army barracks sites in Kent and Pembrokeshire, which have been used to accommodate asylum seekers since September. At Napier Barracks in Kent and Penally Barracks in Pembrokeshire, the Home Office has faced allegations of poor healthcare access, denial of legal support, and safety concerns.
Stephen Hale, chief executive of Refugee Action, condemned the approach, calling it inhumane to house vulnerable people behind barbed wire or in portable cabins in remote areas. He urged the government to house asylum seekers within communities instead.
A Home Office spokesperson defended the plans, saying that due to unprecedented pressure on the system, they have worked to provide suitable accommodation as required by law. They confirmed that Barton Stacey is one of several sites under consideration, with engagement ongoing with local councils, MPs, police, and health services.
