Detention centre expansion inquiry postponed with no new date set

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 13:02 · Archive

A public inquiry into plans to double Campsfield House Immigration Removal Centre's capacity to 400 beds has been postponed indefinitely.

A public inquiry into the Home Office's plans to expand Campsfield House Immigration Removal Centre in Oxfordshire has been postponed indefinitely. The inquiry was scheduled to begin on 6 October at Cherwell District Council in Banbury but no new date has been set more than two weeks later.

The proposal would more than double the centre's capacity from 160 beds to 400 beds for men. The centre reopened in 2025 following a period of closure that came after a review of detainees' welfare and years of protest, including hunger strikes. Around 250 objections were submitted against the expansion plans.

On 4 September, the government's planning inspectorate announced a public inquiry would be held into the plans. A letter to those who made written representations stated: 'The application has generated considerable local interest; some of the issues raised are complex and the evidence would benefit from formal cross-examination.' On 22 September, the inquiry's date, time and location were announced, but three days later the inquiry was postponed. Protests at the site continue monthly.

How it is being reported

• No new date for detention centre inquiry fortnight on from planned startNo new date has been shared for an inquiry into the Home Office's plans to expand a controversial Oxfordshire detention centre, a fortnight after it was set to begin.Oxford Mail · 20 Oct, 12:30
• No new date for detention centre inquiry fortnight on from planned startNo new date has been shared for an inquiry into the Home Office's plans to expand a controversial Oxfordshire detention centre, a fortnight after it was set to begin.Oxfordshire Guardian · 20 Oct, 12:30

In this story: Campsfield House Immigration Removal Centre · Cherwell District Council · Banbury · Oxfordshire · Home Office

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