Government cancels plans for North Eye refuge camp

The Home Office has abandoned the previous government’s plans to use a former prison site in East Sussex as asylum accommodation.

Conservative government to buy derelict NorthEye site in Bexhill for £15m in 2023More than double the amount the seller paid for it a year ago.

Last month a report by the National Audit Office (NAO) found that the Home Office “cut corners” and “made poor decisions” while under pressure to stop placing migrants in hotels.

In a letter seen by the BBC, Home Office minister Angela Eagle says the government has now decided “not to progress with this site”.

He said: “We are very conscious of the need to ensure best value for the taxpayer and it will take significant time and further improvements and operational costs to bring the site forward.”

The NAO report stated that the presence of asbestos had been known before the sale was completed, with the estimated cost of repairs exceeding £20m.

“Steps will be taken to ensure that any further sale of the site is conducted appropriately and reflects the true market value,” the letter, dated December 9, said.

Speaking at a Public Accounts Committee on Monday, Home Office Permanent Secretary Sir Matthew Rycroft confirmed the site is no longer needed.

He said: “Ministers decided just last week that we no longer need this for custodial or non-custodial accommodation at the Home Office.

“So we will work with our partners to see if it would be a good fit for another part of the government and if not, we will sell it.”

Dr Kieran Mullan, Conservative MP for Bexhill and Battle, welcomed the decision.

“I want to thank campaigners and cross-party councilors at all levels of local government for fighting against this scheme,” he said.

“I have done everything possible to support them. I am particularly pleased for the residents of Northie Estate for whom the uncertainty and anxiety is over.”