Plans to use RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire to house asylum seekers have been scrapped.

A spokesperson from the Home Office said the East Midlands site does not "represent value for money."

The plans had been controversial with nearby residents protesting against the proposals.

The government has already spent £60 million on the site. The Home Office said that it would begin closing the site immediately with the aim of selling it off.

A view of RAF ScamptonPA

Minister for border security and asylum Angela Eagle said: "Faster asylum processing, increased returns and tighter enforcement of immigration rules will reduce demand for accommodation like Scampton and save millions for the taxpayer as we drive forward work to clear the asylum backlog and strengthen our border security.

“We have also listened to community feedback and concerns about using this site for asylum accommodation.”

Conservative MP for Gainsborough, which covers Scampton, Sir Edward Leigh said: "Victory: the two-year battle is over. We have won.

"Migrants will not be housed at Scampton and the site will be released 'as soon as is practicable.' We want the full regeneration package to go ahead, and the site not just sold for housing."

RAF Scampton protestGB News

RAF Scampton in the East Midlands

The local council wants to launch a £300m regeneration of the site that would include air, space, education and hospitality facilities, as well as a museum and a memorial.