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.’
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