In a letter, the Home Office confirmed its decision to use Roman Court, in Leverington, near Wisbech, to house mothers and babies.
It comes less than two weeks after a fire ripped through a disused building at the site, which police are investigating as arson.
Fenland District Council said the decision “demonstrates a complete disregard for the serious risks the plans pose to public safety, community cohesion and civil unrest.”
Concerns have been raised about the site which was earmarked as part of government plans to move asylum seekers out of hotels and into longer-term homes.
Police continue to investigate a fire which ripped through a disused building at the site (Image: Colin Martin)
Cllr Sam Hoy, Fenland District Council portfolio holder for housing, said: “We are extremely alarmed by the Home Office’s decision which has been taken despite extensive evidence from the Council and our partners highlighting serious concerns about the suitability of Roman Court and the risks associated with this proposal.
“What is particularly troubling is that the Home Office has chosen to proceed at a time when there has already been significant unrest linked to these plans, including public protests and the fire at the site, which remains the subject of an ongoing police investigation.
“These events have demonstrated the strength of local concern and the heightened tensions that exist within the community.
“We do not believe those circumstances can simply be dismissed as issues that can be managed through routine arrangements.
“Our position remains unchanged. Roman Court is the wrong location for this proposal, and we remain deeply concerned about the impact on both future residents and the wider community.
“We will continue to make our objections known to the Home Office and work with our partners to ensure local concerns are heard and appropriately addressed.”
As the contracted accommodation provider, Serco will be required to demonstrate the site meets legal, regulator and property requirements before occupation.
“This will include the relevant safeguarding, welfare, security, fire safety and operational arrangements,” the letter reads.
“Where site-specific action or mitigation is required, this will be taken forward with Serco and the relevant partners as the site progresses.
“The accommodation will not become operational until the applicable requirements have been met, with input from relevant partners sought through the appropriate channels where required.”
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