William Eichler 26 June 2023

Planning inspector green lights Stafford asylum centre

Planning inspector green lights Stafford asylum centre  image
Image: Caron Badkin / Shutterstock.com.

A Government planning inspector has overruled the local planning authority and given the go-ahead for an asylum seekers centre in Stafford.

Serco, who work on behalf of the Home Office, appealed a decision by the council’s planning committee to reject an application for the former Staffordshire University student halls of residence to become accommodation for asylum seekers.

The committee rejected the application on the basis that it might ‘increase the public fear of crime’ and because of concerns there would be a ‘detrimental impact upon local public health service resources.’

Planning inspector, Gareth Jones, allowed the appeal for the centre which could house around 480 asylum seekers after a four-day public inquiry in May.

He concluded: ‘Overall, therefore, the planning balance is very firmly in favour of the appeal scheme. In the terms of the Framework, it would be sustainable development that should be granted planning permission without further delay.’

Cllr Aidan Godfrey, leader of the borough council, ‘The planning inspector has decided that the former university accommodation in Stafford is suitable for this asylum centre and it is now important for the council, our partners, and voluntary groups to work with Serco and the Home Office to ensure the concerns that some residents expressed at the inquiry are addressed and allayed.’

He added: ‘The health and wellbeing of everyone in our community is a priority - including those who live and work here already, and those who will make Stafford their temporary home.’

Sign up here to receive our free daily news and jobs bulletin.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Casual Support Worker

Oxfordshire County Council
£25992 - £28163
About Us Abingdon Community Support Service's primary purpose is to support adults to engage with a stimulating programme of meaningful individual and rewarding group activities. The Social and Community Services vision is to support and promote strong c Abingdon Community Support Service
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Quality and Review Support Assistant

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £25,583 - £26,824 Pro-rata
WHAT IS INVOLVED?   You will provide administrative, clerical and typing services to the Quality & Review Service, specifically in support of the Inde Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Duty Manager

Durham County Council
Grade 6 £28,142 - £31,022 per annum
We have an opportunity for a Duty Manager at Meadowfield Leisure Centre.  WHAT IS INVOLVED? You will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of t Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Support Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £25,583 - £26,824 Pro-rata
WHAT IS INVOLVED?   You should be an enthusiastic team player who takes pride in providing excellent customer service.  You will have good communicati Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Support Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £25,583 - £26,824 Pro-rata
We have an exciting opportunity for a permanent Support Officer to join our dedicated team within Business Services (part time 22 hours).   WHAT IS IN Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner