Campaigners say a Home Office ecological assessment may have overlooked protected crested newts and other wildlife at a former military site near Piddington, Oxfordshire. They argue the alleged omission could support a legal challenge to plans for temporary accommodation for more than 1,200 male asylum seekers.

The proposed facility at the former Bicester Garrison would include accommodation, healthcare, welfare facilities, roads, security and recreation areas for up to 1,256 people. Separately, Piddington residents voted overwhelmingly for symbolic independence from the UK, with 285 of 312 voters supporting the motion; the vote has no legal effect but was intended to express opposition to the asylum plans.