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Date submitted

5 August 2026

Submitted by

Interested party

I have recently read the correspondence regarding the proposed plans for the Haslar Immigration Removal Centre (IRC), and I am deeply concerned by several aspects of this proposal. My first concern is the apparent lack of consultation with local residents. Why was there no meaningful opportunity for the local community to provide input before these plans were developed? A project of this scale will have a significant impact on the surrounding area, yet it appears that local people have had little or no voice in the process. The proposed development will also alter the character of what is a beautiful and historically significant part of Gosport. Haslar is an important part of our naval heritage, and many residents feel that the scale and nature of this development is inappropriate for such a historic location. I also seek clarification regarding the purpose of the facility. My understanding was that an Immigration Removal Centre is intended to hold individuals pending deportation. If that is the case, why will some detainees be eligible for immigration bail and allowed into the local community? This seems inconsistent with the stated purpose of the centre, and I would appreciate an explanation. In addition, I am concerned about the impact on local public services. I would have expected a facility of this nature to include its own medical and dental provision. Local GP surgeries, dental practices and hospitals are already under considerable pressure. Obtaining a GP appointment is extremely difficult, and our local hospitals are struggling to cope with existing demand. What assessment has been carried out of the additional pressure this development could place on healthcare services? Gosport is a proud historic naval town, but it is also an area that already faces significant challenges. There are existing pressures on housing, schools, healthcare and local infrastructure. Can you confirm what impact assessments have been undertaken to evaluate the effect this proposal will have on these services, and whether additional funding will be provided to support them? Overall, I am disappointed by what appears to have been a lack of consultation, transparency and consideration for local residents. Decisions of this magnitude should not be made without meaningful engagement with the community they will affect. I would be grateful if you could respond to the following questions: Why was there no meaningful consultation with local residents before these proposals were announced? What is the rationale for locating the Immigration Removal Centre at Haslar? Why will some detainees be eligible for immigration bail if the facility's purpose is to hold individuals pending deportation? What assessments have been undertaken regarding the impact on healthcare, housing, schools and other local infrastructure? What additional resources or funding will be provided to ensure local public services are not adversely affected? I look forward to your response and to understanding how the concerns of Gosport residents will be properly considered before this proposal proceeds. Should there be a hearing i would like to attend as a concerned resident