There are calls for a compromise over the future use of the former RAF Scampton site

We're hearing that the developers of the regeneration plan would accept a compromise; if work could begin on the site, while a smaller number of asylum seekers used it as accommodation,

Author: Charlotte LinnecarPublished 15th Jul 2023

There are calls for a compromise over the use of the former RAF Scampton site - it's hoped that both a regeneration plan and an asylum centre can take place at the same time.

It comes as West Lindsey District Council get permission to bring a Judicial review against the Home Office's plans to house asylum seekers there.

Peter Hewitt is the Chairman of Scampton Holdings Limited, who are the development partner for this project, and he tells us more:

“Scampton Holdings Ltd (SHL) welcomes the recent judgement as a triumph for both common sense and democracy. Lady Justice Thornton's reference to our £300m development scheme in her ruling reassures us that the significance of our project is being acknowledged by the Home Office.

"We are optimistic that this will encourage open, productive dialogue with the Home Office, leading to a mutually beneficial agreement and a clear timeline for the realisation of our respective interests.

"I think the hard commercial reality is that we'll probably have to meet a compromise somewhere, and that we will have to house some of them. But the concept of more than doubling the population of the local village of Scampton, seems to me, quite scandalous."

He added that the sooner a decision is made, the better:

"On the one hand we have the local authority, which is taxpayer funded, and on the other hand we have the central Government, which is tax[payer funded. So, guess who gets to pay for this... it's you and me, the taxpayer.

"So, the sooner we can close off legal actions, but having gota sensible result, will be a real victory for Lincolnshire.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support so far and we will keep you informed as we hear of any updates.”

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