Planned asylum seeker detention centre next to Oxfordshire sewage works criticised
Summary
The UK Home Office plans to expand Campsfield House immigration removal centre in Oxfordshire from 160 to 400 bed spaces. Thames Water warned that nearby sewage infrastructure could cause odours, insects, noise and possible flooding, while local authorities and campaigners have raised objections. A public inquiry into the proposals is due to begin on 14 December.Key Facts
- The planned accommodation blocks would be about 20 metres from a sewage pumping station.
- Thames Water warned of possible odours, noise, vibration, maintenance lighting, insects and flies.
- Thames Water also raised concerns about local foul-water, surface-water and water-supply capacity and called for an impact study.
- The Home Office plans to increase Campsfield House’s capacity from 160 to 400 bed spaces and convert existing buildings.
- Campsfield House reopened in December 2025 after closing in 2018.
- Oxfordshire County Council has formally objected to the expansion and called for the site to close permanently.
- A public inquiry into the written representations is scheduled to begin on 14 December.
- The Home Office said it is confident in its plans and that added detention capacity supports its efforts to remove people with no right to remain in the UK.
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