Shropshire Council has confirmed that more than 120 Afghan nationals are currently staying at RAF Cosford. The revelation came during a full council meeting where Councillor James Owen, portfolio holder for housing and leisure, provided the figures.
Details of the Afghan Nationals
According to Councillor Owen, there are 24 households living in service family accommodation on the Cosford site, comprising 52 adults and 71 children. This totals 123 individuals currently housed at the base.
Concerns Raised by Councillor Barker
Councillor Elizabeth Barker, Reform UK councillor for Shifnal Rural, raised concerns about the clarity of information provided to residents. She noted that a meeting held in Albrighton on April 23 left questions unanswered. Residents were told 25 families were housed, but the total number of individuals was not disclosed. There was also conflicting information about how long families would remain and whether future placements would occur.
Councillor Barker asked the Cabinet member to clearly outline Shropshire Council's plans for the Afghan resettlement scheme, confirm the number housed, clarify if they would be classed as homeless, state how long they are expected to stay before finding settled accommodation, and reveal the cost to taxpayers.
Response from Councillor Owen
Councillor Owen emphasized that the Afghan Resettlement Scheme is the responsibility of the Home Office, not Shropshire Council. He stated that any specific requests about future households should be directed to the Home Office. The resettlement team is working with families to secure alternative accommodation before their three-year placement ends in November 2026 to avoid homelessness. He added that no money from Shropshire Council funds the scheme; it is supported by ring-fenced government grants.
Call for Apology
Councillor Barker demanded a public apology to residents of Albrighton and Cosford, who were allegedly told no more families would be housed in the future. Councillor Owen said he would follow up with officers, noting that since future arrivals are unknown, such a comment should not have been made.
