Residents of Linton-on-Ouse, a small North Yorkshire village, are voicing strong opposition to plans that would house 1,200 male asylum seekers at a nearby former RAF base. With a population of just 600, the villagers are concerned about the significant demographic shift this would create, raising fears about safety and community cohesion. They have invited Labour’s migration minister, Anna Turley, to visit and discuss the implications of such a large influx of single adult men into their tight-knit community.
The local action group argues that the financial burden of the proposed asylum centre is unsustainable, with projected costs exceeding £400 million over three years. This figure far surpasses the government’s baseline expectations for asylum accommodation, raising questions about fiscal responsibility and the impact on local taxpayers. The villagers contend that the financial miscalculations could lead to long-term economic strain on their community.
Safety concerns are also paramount, as the site is located near a primary school and children’s play area. Parents have expressed anxiety over the potential risks associated with housing a large number of asylum seekers in close proximity to vulnerable populations. Local MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke has echoed these concerns, describing the location as inappropriate given its proximity to schools.
The villagers are not against helping asylum seekers but are calling for a more thoughtful approach that considers the unique challenges of their rural setting. They seek an open dialogue with the government to explore feasible alternatives that would not disrupt their community’s way of life.
Source: GB News
