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A decision by the UK government to house around 300 asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks in Inverness has sparked controversy and raised concerns among local politicians and residents. The move to use a military site for accommodation has been met with opposition, with critics questioning the suitability of the location near Inverness city centre. Local MP Angus MacDonald questioned the Minister of State at the Home Office, Alex Norris, about the impact on the community.
Norris assured that steps would be taken to minimize any negative impact on the surrounding areas and emphasized the importance of safety and security for those living nearby. The Home Office has confirmed plans to use Cameron Barracks, along with an East Sussex army training camp, as part of efforts to move away from using hotels for asylum accommodation. The decision has drawn criticism from various quarters, with concerns about the lack of consultation and consideration for the local community.
In response to the backlash, Scottish Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville criticized the lack of information and consultation from the UK government. She highlighted the importance of considering the impact on the local community and ensuring that the barracks can meet the needs of asylum seekers. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar cautioned against responding with fear and emphasized the need to avoid stigmatizing individuals waiting for decisions from the Home Office.
Concerns have also been raised about the additional pressures that accommodating asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks may place on local services, such as healthcare. Despite the government’s plans to revamp the 140-year-old barracks in preparation for housing asylum seekers, questions remain about potential planning consent and the overall implications for community cohesion in Inverness and the wider Highlands. The issue is set to be discussed further at a special meeting of the Highland Council in the coming days
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