Dear constituent,
Thank you for contacting me about Campsfield House.
Detention and removal are essential parts of effective immigration controls. I share the Government's view that it is vital that these are carried out with dignity and respect, taking the welfare of detained individuals very seriously.
As you mention, the Government announced in June 2022 that it is planning the development of a new Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) at the former Campsfield House, near Oxford. I understand that the plans are in the early stages, however the hope is for the new IRC to be a mixture of refurbished and new-build accommodation to provide safe, secure and fit for purpose accommodation for around 400 men in detention.
The Home Office undertook thorough site assessments at several locations to establish those which can be most easily converted into safe, secure and fit for purpose IRCs. These site assessments included consideration of the land and location of the site, including accessibility of services and utilities, the current use of the site and existing buildings and value for money. As a previous IRC site, Campsfield offers a good opportunity to utilise and improve existing accommodation as well as an opportunity to consider wider options within the site. It is also worth pointing out that the IRC will provide jobs and support the local economy.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Sincerely,
