Plans to house dozens of asylum seekers in a new-build housing estate in Stoke Heath, Shropshire are put on hold following local opposition. Multiple outlets report that around 83 asylum seekers were intended to be moved into 21 newly built homes on the estate, which some residents describe as £250,000 properties. Residents say they were originally promised the development would provide social or affordable housing for local people, and they argue the proposal would price out those seeking to buy or rent nearby.
Coverage also reports that the Home Office issues updated guidance and a “U-turn” after the dispute. According to the BBC and other summaries, the Home Office places the scheme under review and states that new-build homes should not be used to house asylum seekers in the reported way, including restrictions on where asylum seekers can be accommodated near schools. Further reporting notes that local political figures and officials press the Home Office to review the plan. Separate outlets mention that residents are told that identity checks would be carried out in connection with asylum seeker housing plans, though the overall housing move is described as paused and set to be relocated rather than proceeding in Stoke Heath as originally planned.
