The proposal, submitted by Reform Councillor Dawn Bellingham, cites concerns about transparency
(Image: Local Democracy Reporting Service)
The Government is poised to face demands to block any fresh asylum accommodation in County Durham. The proposal, tabled by Reform Councillor Dawn Bellingham, highlights worries about a “lack of transparency” from the government and its contractors, including Mears Group, regarding the placement of asylum seekers in County Durham.
Should it be backed, Durham County Council would seek comprehensive information about the number of individuals expected to be accommodated, where properties are being secured, the anticipated duration of placements and the potential impact on local services.
The motion also calls for evidence to warrant any additional procurement of asylum accommodation across the county.
“Durham County Council notes with concern the ongoing lack of transparency from Government and its contractors, including Mears Group, regarding the procurement and placement of accommodation for asylum seekers within County Durham.”
It is scheduled to be examined by councillors on Wednesday (July 15).
Earlier this year, Darren Grimes, Reform deputy leader at Durham County Council, criticised the Government for neglecting local concerns and suggested the county was being disproportionately targeted.
Home Office statistics revealed 445 asylum seekers were accommodated in County Durham as of March 2025, while approximately 100 households had also been moved from London during the previous two years. Cllr Bellingham’s proposal states that the council believes local authorities should be “fully informed, properly consulted, and provided with clear evidence” when decisions have the potential to affect communities, public services and infrastructure.
The motion calls upon the UK government to halt any further procurement of accommodation in County Durham until the requested information has been supplied in its entirety.
Cllr Bellingham, ward member for Horden and Dene House, warned that the authority would oppose any arrangements introduced without adequate consultation, data sharing, accountability and a solid evidence base.
Should councillors back the motion, the authority’s leader would be directed to write to the Home Secretary and other government ministers, outlining the council’s stance and requesting urgent talks.
The debate arrives amid mounting national pressure on the asylum accommodation system, with hotels, houses and various other properties being utilised across the UK to provide temporary housing while asylum claims are being processed.
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