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Date submitted

24 July 2026

Submitted by

Interested party

Dear Sir/Madam, I wish to object to the proposed expansion of Campsfield House Immigration Removal Centre. As Influencer Chair at Baobab Women's Project CIC, I work closely with refugee and migrant women and families. Through this role, I have seen how immigration detention creates fear, uncertainty and long-lasting emotional harm. For this reason, I do not believe that expanding Campsfield is the right approach. My objection is based on the following concerns: Firstly, expanding the detention centre from 160 to 400 places would represent a major development that would significantly increase its impact on the surrounding area. I am concerned about the harm this would cause to the Green Belt and the surrounding landscape. Development on this scale should only take place where there is a clear and compelling justification, and I do not believe this has been demonstrated. Secondly, I am concerned that such a large expansion would place additional pressure on local infrastructure and public services, including transport, healthcare and emergency services. A development of this size is likely to increase traffic, vehicle movements and demand on local resources, yet it is not clear that these impacts have been adequately assessed or addressed. Thirdly, I am not convinced that the Home Office has provided sufficient evidence to justify why this expansion is necessary. Before approving such a significant proposal, there should be clear and transparent evidence demonstrating that further detention capacity is needed and that less harmful alternatives have been thoroughly considered. Finally, I believe there should be greater public scrutiny of this proposal. Given the potential impact on the local area and on the lives of those who may be detained there, it is essential that adequate information is made publicly available and that all concerns are carefully considered before any decision is made. Beyond these planning concerns, I believe immigration detention causes unnecessary harm. It separates people from their families, legal advisers and support networks, often without a clear time limit. In my work with refugee and migrant communities, I have seen how detention policies affect not only individuals but also families and communities who are left to deal with the emotional and practical consequences. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Planning Inspectorate to refuse planning permission for the proposed expansion of Campsfield House Immigration Removal Centre. Yours faithfully ████████████████ Influencer Chair Baobab Women's project CIC