MP criticises government plans to house asylum seekers in local village
Asylum seekers are set to be moved into properties in Stoke Heath by Serco
Plans by the government to house up to 121 asylum seekers in the village of Stoke Heath, near Market Drayton, have been criticised by local MP Mark Pritchard.
The scheme, facilitated by government contractor Serco, aims to move asylum seekers into 21 properties in phases starting this week.
Families and single occupiers are set to be among those moving into the properties.
Mark Pritchard MP, who represents The Wrekin constituency, raised concerns in the House of Commons during Prime Minister's Questions regarding the suitability of Stoke Heath for housing such a large number of asylum seekers.
Pritchard highlighted that the rural village has limited access to local services such as shops and public transport, with the nearest bus stop being a 30-minute walk away.
He argued that for those unfamiliar with the area, Stoke Heath would be an unsuitable environment.
The MP accused the government of not consulting with local residents or the parish council about their plans.
Pritchard said he received only a few hours' notice of the decision.
Calling for action, Pritchard urged Shropshire Council to apply for a judicial review of the Home Office's decision, stating, "It is neither safe nor fair on the local community to see so many asylum seekers in local housing."