Hundreds of jobs to be created at migration detention centre

Singer Bob Hughes was a regular protester at Campsfield House detention centre
Singer Bob Hughes was a regular protester at Campsfield House detention centre
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Almost 400 jobs could be created at an immigration detention centre in Oxfordshire, documents show.

The Planning Inspectorate has launched a consultation on its plans to expand Campsfield House opposite Oxford Airport just outside of Kidlington.

A formal planning application has also been submitted by the Home Office to increase the bed capacity by 240 to take it to 400.

Previously known as Campsfield House, the centre was closed in 2018 following years of controversy, during which around 3,600 people passed through the centre, with an average stay of 39 days.

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In documents published for the consultation, it's estimated that 340 full-time equivalent net additional jobs would be made when it's operational.

The jobs would have the "potential to provide opportunity to local people who are currently unemployed or with poor labour market contributions", the document says.

It adds: "These will be permanent roles across a wide range of functions and levels, including facilities management, security, administration and specialist support services once the Campsfield IRC is operational.

"The approach is intended to maximise local employment opportunities and deliver sustained economic benefits."

It's also believed there will be a further 250 jobs made during the construction phase.

However, it also says there is concern of the potential for further protests in the future outside the detention centre.

It adds: "A key concern for local residents is for their safety in case of breakouts of the IRC population.

"The Home Office released a factsheet on the new Campsfield IRC stating that the site will be a secure facility with all services available on-site (including recreation, faith and medical services).

"This should reduce the concern by local residents for their safety once the IRC reopens."

As well as the 400 beds, it's hoped that Campsfield House will also feature double rooms with a minimum floor area of 10 sqm and healthcare facilities to provide primary healthcare for the residents.

The government says it has "assumed" emergency healthcare will be provided by hospitals in Oxford.

Education space will also be provided along with kitchens and a dining facility to support seating for up to 134 detained migrants and a Mosque and prayer rooms.

The government officially reopened Campsfield in December to help tackle the backlog of asylum cases and speed up removals.

Detained people will be escorted to Campsfield either directly from prison, a short-term holding facility after their illegal entry to the UK or following enforcement action such as illegal working arrests.

They will comprise of foreign national criminals, immigration offenders, illegal small boats arrivals and failed asylum seekers.

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