Stoke Heath residents demand clarity over asylum seeker housing
Local MP seeks government transparency and a community meeting
Residents in Stoke Heath are demanding clarity and consultation regarding the use of new-build houses for housing asylum seekers.
Local MP Mark Pritchard has been actively raising these concerns in Parliament, securing a meeting with the Minister for Border Security and Asylum to address the issue.
Pritchard has called for representatives from the Home Office or Serco to attend a community meeting scheduled for Thursday, ensuring transparency and addressing community concerns about decisions made without prior consultation.
In Parliament, Pritchard highlighted the lack of associated services in Stoke Heath for accommodating around 352 people, including 121 asylum seekers, noting infrequent public service options such as a 30-minute bus wait.
He emphasised the need for transparency, stating that decisions have been made without discussing with or informing residents.
Pritchard is pursuing the issue of using Stoke Heath as part of the government's broader housing programme, which addresses the rising number of asylum applications.
He aims to change how these developments are handled, focusing on transparency and conversation rather than perceived deterrents.
The upcoming community meeting will prioritise local residents, who must bring photographic ID due to limited space.