Highland Council has confirmed that its political leadership has written to the Home Secretary raising serious concerns about proposals to accommodate 300 adult male asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks in Inverness.
The letter follows a special Council meeting held on 6 November, where members from across the chamber agreed that the scale of the proposal, and the way it had been communicated, required urgent clarification from the UK Government.
Council Leader Raymond Bremner, Convenor Bill Lobban and Leader of the Opposition Alasdair Christie have jointly asked the Home Office to explain why the barracks was selected as a site and how the project would be managed to avoid placing additional pressure on local services.
They have requested full risk and impact assessments, details of funding arrangements, and assurances that the Home Office will engage meaningfully with the local community throughout the process.
The letter also highlights concerns that Cameron Barracks may not be a suitable location for such a large number of people, and urges the Home Office to consider the wider impact on Inverness.
It calls for regular dialogue with residents, including a public meeting, to ensure transparency and allow local people the opportunity to ask questions and express their views.
Council Leader Raymond Bremner said members were clear in their support for those seeking safety, but stressed that the concerns raised were both reasonable and necessary.
“While welcoming people in need and seeking safety, elected members last week raised a number of valid concerns about this proposal and the way it has been communicated,” he said.
“We have asked to meet with the Home Secretary to discuss these issues in more detail.”
Highland Council is now awaiting a response from the Home Office.
