The UK Government has announced a significant delay to its controversial proposal to accommodate approximately 300 male asylum seekers at a military barracks in the Scottish Highlands.
Backlash and Government Reassessment
The initial plan to use Cameron Barracks in Inverness had been met with strong opposition from Highland Council and a number of local residents. In response, the Home Office has stated it will not proceed until the site is deemed fully operational and safe for occupants.
A spokesperson emphasised the government's intention to learn from previous errors, stating they would not replicate the mistakes of the past where rushed plans led to unsafe and chaotic situations.
Site Suitability and Wider Immigration Strategy
Serious questions had been raised regarding the appropriateness of Cameron Barracks as accommodation. The site is reportedly in need of a substantial £1.3 million refurbishment, casting doubt on its readiness. The men were originally scheduled to be moved to the barracks before the end of the year.
This decision is part of a broader government effort to reduce reliance on hotels for asylum seeker housing. Recently released figures show a 13% increase in the number of asylum seekers temporarily housed in UK hotels, with 36,273 people in such accommodation at the end of September.
The issue has become increasingly prominent, with protests occurring outside some hotels. It also coincides with the Scottish Government and multiple councils declaring a housing emergency.
A Home Office spokesperson said: We are furious at the level of illegal migrants and asylum hotels. Moving to large military sites is an important part of our reforms to tackle illegal migration and the pull factors that make the UK an attractive destination.
The statement confirmed that plans are still being accelerated for both Cameron Barracks and the Crowborough military base in East Sussex, but only when they are completely ready, underscoring a commitment to avoiding negative impacts on local communities.
