James Cleverly has written to residents in Wethersfield and the surrounding area on the future of the Asylum Centre. You can find the full text below.
Dear Resident,
I’m writing to you about the Wethersfield Asylum Reception Centre.
You will remember that I made my concerns about the suitability of the location very clear from the start, and while the centre wasn’t what I wanted, I committed to everything I could to minimise any impact on local communities.
That was a commitment that I ensured was upheld.
As well as organising local meetings to hear residents’ views, I secured agreements that cut the maximum capacity from 1,700 down to 800 and for enhanced policing cover locally.
I made it clear from the start that the Wethersfield Asylum Reception Centre must be a temporary measure with a clear end date and decommissioning period. Local voices must be heard when deciding what comes after the site is decommissioned in 2027, and for this reason I do not want to see a prison on this site.
I have now obtained a commitment that if a Conservative Government is returned at this election, any decisions about the future use of the site will be made in collaboration with the Local Authority.
The Reform candidate has made videos and circulated literature with incorrect and out of date information, showing how little he knows or really cares about this issue. Politicised groups like Care 4 Calais have encouraged asylum seekers to take part in demonstrations outside the site, impacting those living close by. I find this behaviour unacceptable.
I am committed to stopping the boats and ending the need for Wethersfield ARC. Sadly, others are trying to make your community a political football.
I will continue to work on your behalf, ensure your voice is heard, and work to close the site. I would appreciate your support and vote on 4th July.
Yours faithfully,
James Cleverly
Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Braintree
