The Government is set to face calls to halt any new asylum accommodation in County Durham, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The proposal, submitted by Reform Councillor Dawn Bellingham, raises concerns about a “lack of transparency” from the government and its contractors, including Mears Group, over the placement of asylum seekers in County Durham.
If approved, Durham County Council would request detailed information about the number of people expected to be housed, where accommodation is being procured, how long placements are expected to last and what impact they could have on local services.
The motion also seeks evidence to justify any further procurement of asylum accommodation in 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 due to be considered by councillors on Wednesday (July 15).
Earlier this year, Darren Grimes, Reform deputy leader at Durham County Council, accused the Government of failing to listen to local concerns and claimed the county was being unfairly targeted.
Home Office figures showed 445 asylum seekers were being housed in County Durham as of March 2025, while around 100 households had also been relocated from London over the past 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.
It calls on the UK government to pause any further procurement of accommodation in County Durham until the requested information has been provided in full.
Cllr Bellingham, ward member for Horden and Dene House, said the authority would resist any arrangements introduced without proper consultation, data sharing, accountability and a clear evidence base.
If backed by councillors, the authority’s leader would be instructed to write to the Home Secretary and other government ministers setting out the council’s position and requesting urgent discussions.
The debate comes amid continued national pressure on the asylum accommodation system, with hotels, houses and other properties used across the UK to provide temporary accommodation while asylum claims are processed.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
