"The centre was shut in 2018 after years of problems, including riots, escapes and complaints about conditions. Protesters who gathered as the first detainees arrived described the move as a "terrible step backwards" but the government said Campsfield would "speed up enforced removals of foreign national offenders and illegal migrants". The plan has also been opposed by MPs, residents and charities, as well as Oxford City Council. The Home Office said Campsfield had undergone a 70m refurbishment and was "redeveloped to high security standards"."
"Home Office Alex Norris, minister for border security and asylum, said Campsfield was the "first step in a major expansion of secure detention facilities, giving us the capacity to remove thousands more foreign criminals and illegal migrants quickly". "This is about fairness to those who play by the rules and delivering on our pledge to secure our borders, enforce the rules and protect the British public," he said."
The Home Office reopened Campsfield Immigration Removal Centre near Kidlington; the first detainees arrived on Wednesday and Thursday. The centre had closed in 2018 after riots, escapes and complaints about conditions. Protesters described the reopening as a "terrible step backwards", while the government said the facility will speed up enforced removals of foreign national offenders and illegal migrants. The site underwent a 70m refurbishment to high security standards and currently offers about 160 bed spaces, planned to expand to 400. Detainees will arrive from prisons, short-term holding facilities after illegal entry, or following enforcement such as illegal working arrests. Operator Mitie holds a six-year contract. The plan has faced opposition from MPs, residents, charities and Oxford City Council.
Read at www.bbc.com
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