Home Office Caps Migrant Numbers at RAF Wethersfield Amid Controversy
- The Home Office plans to cap the number of asylum seekers at RAF Wethersfield at 800.
- Local politicians have criticized the ongoing use of the site due to its isolation and infrastructure issues.
- The debate over the future of RAF Wethersfield reflects broader challenges in managing the UK's asylum system.
RAF Wethersfield is currently housing approximately 540 asylum seekers, sparking local outrage as it has been designated for Channel crossing migrants. Despite plans to close the site, the continuing increase in migrant crossings has led to proposals to expand its capacity. Critics, including former Home Secretaries James Cleverly and Priti Patel, have raised concerns about the site's remote location and insufficient infrastructure. They argue that this undermines the government’s earlier commitments for responsible asylum accommodation. The Home Office maintains that adjustments to the asylum system are necessary to manage unprecedented migrant numbers, which exceeded 30,000 in 2024, marking a significant rise over the previous year. Approval has been granted for the site under a special development order with specific conditions; however, many remain unmet, prompting further debates regarding its suitability and long-term plans for the facility.