Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, has formally written to the Prime Minister to express significant concerns regarding the operation of the asylum dispersal scheme within North Northamptonshire. The letter calls for an immediate halt to any further procurement of asylum accommodation in the region until the Government has thoroughly assessed the impact on community cohesion, public confidence, and community safety.
North Northamptonshire currently holds a dispersal quota of 846 asylum bed spaces, ranking as the third highest in the East Midlands. The council acknowledges its close collaboration with the Home Office, SERCO, Northamptonshire Police, and other partners since the scheme's inception. However, Cllr Griffiths highlighted a perceived disconnect, stating that local authorities are tasked with managing the consequences of decisions over which they have limited influence.
The council has previously voiced concerns about the concentration of asylum accommodation in certain parts of North Northamptonshire, notably in Corby. Following discussions with the Home Office, a temporary pause on further procurement in Corby was agreed at the start of 2026.
Cllr Griffiths emphasised that the concerns extend beyond mere numbers, focusing on the cumulative effect on local communities and the capacity of agencies to maintain public confidence and safety. He noted that recent events indicate increased tensions related to asylum dispersal in the area, and residents expect local leaders to be informed about who is placed in their communities and any associated risks, a position he described as 'untenable'.
The North Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership continues to prioritise community cohesion, working with local organisations to foster relationships and prevent escalating tensions. The Leader's letter outlines specific requests to the Government: an immediate pause on further asylum accommodation procurement, an urgent review of the scheme's impact on community cohesion and confidence, greater consideration for local authority and police representations, and the sharing of appropriate information for risk management.
Cllr Griffiths concluded by urging the Government to collaborate with councils like North Northamptonshire to ensure future decisions are informed by local knowledge and accountability, reflecting local circumstances and commanding public confidence.
