The Home Office has announced plans to use the former Bicester Garrison site, located between Piddington and Upper Arncott, to accommodate people seeking asylum. This proposal is intended to provide an alternative to the use of hotel accommodation.
Cherwell District Council was not consulted on these proposals in advance and only became aware of them shortly before they were made public. At this stage, the Council holds limited information and much of what is currently known is based on publicly available reporting.
We are actively seeking further details from the Home Office and have asked them to engage directly with the Council so that we can better understand the proposals and keep residents informed.
We recognise that this is an important issue for local communities and that residents may have questions or concerns. Oxfordshire and Cherwell in particular has a long history of welcoming and supporting those in need and is recognised as a county of sanctuary. This reflects a commitment to compassion and inclusion, alongside the importance of ensuring that any new proposals are carefully managed so that local communities are supported, informed, and not adversely impacted.
This page will be updated as more information becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is being proposed?
The Home Office is proposing to repurpose part of the former Bicester Garrison site to accommodate people seeking asylum.
Based on information currently in the public domain, this could involve the use of a disused warehouse to provide accommodation as an alternative to hotel use.
How many people could be accommodated?
Initial reports suggest that the site could provide up to approximately 1,250 bedspaces. It is understood that, if the site progresses, it may open in phases, with a smaller number of people accommodated initially.
When could the site open?
At this stage, it is suggested that the site could open in late 2026 or early 2027. However, this has not yet been confirmed and may be subject to change.
Was the Council consulted?
No. Cherwell District Council was not consulted on these proposals and only became aware of them shortly before they were publicly announced.
We have raised our concerns about the lack of prior engagement directly with the Home Office.
What information does the Council currently have?
At present, the Council does not have detailed operational information about how the site would be run. The information available to us is largely limited to what has already been reported publicly.
We have formally requested further details from the Home Office and are seeking urgent engagement with them.
What is the Council doing about the proposals?
The Leader of the Council has written to the Home Secretary to:
- Express concern about the lack of consultation
- Request urgent further information
- Seek clarity on the potential impacts on local communities
The Council is also actively requesting direct engagement with the Home Office so that we can represent residents’ interests and keep communities informed.
What about the impact on local communities and services?
We recognise that residents may have concerns about the potential impact on local services, infrastructure and community safety.
These are key issues that the Council has raised with the Home Office. We have emphasised the importance of ensuring that local communities are supported and that clear communication is provided.
Given the rural nature of the area, we have also highlighted the need to understand how appropriate services and infrastructure would be provided without placing additional pressure on nearby villages.
Will there be more information available?
Yes. We will update this page as soon as further information is received from the Home Office.
We are pressing for timely and clear communication so that residents can stay informed.
How can I share my views?
Residents can contact the Council to share views or raise concerns:
Email: bicester.garrison@cherwell-dc.gov.uk
We will ensure that feedback is shared with the Home Office.
Residents may also wish to contact the Home Office directly (details will be added here once available).
Keeping You Updated
We are committed to being open and transparent with residents. As more information becomes available, we will share updates on this page and through our usual communication channels.
Thank you for your patience while we seek further clarity on these proposals.