Manston: factsheet
Updated 25 February 2026
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The Home Office currently uses the site for initial processing of people arriving by small boats. It is vital that there is an appropriate facility where those individuals can be securely detained, while their identity and other details are collected and verified.
The Home Office plans to upgrade the current infrastructure to provide a more efficient processing centre on the Manston site.
What is changing at the site of the Home Office processing centre in Manston?
Since February 2022, the Home Office has been using the Manston site for the initial processing of people arriving by small boats.
While there have been some improvements to the facilities and support services on the Manston site since it was opened for use in February 2022, it remains made up of old buildings that have been repurposed, and several temporary structures.
The current infrastructure needs to be updated to ensure a more efficient processing centre. This will remain a fully secure facility, with the protection of the local community’s safety given the same paramount importance as now.
Additionally, a training facility will be built to support Immigration Enforcement and Border Force operations.
Over time, the government expects to see reduced need for the services currently provided at Manston, as it continues to deliver its strategy to reduce illegal immigration, and tackle the gangs responsible for the small boat trade across the Channel.
What will be the impact on local communities and services?
As an initial processing centre, arrivals remain there for short periods of time (usually 24 hours at most), and it remains a fully secure facility. Immediate healthcare needs are managed by a Home Office commissioned supplier on site.
Development of the site will continue to support local growth and jobs.
Plans for the site
The Home Office sought planning approval to continue using the site for its current purpose and to improve the infrastructure through the Urgent Crown Development route, which allows planning applications for nationally important development. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) have now reviewed and approved the application.
Since submitting the planning proposal, the outcomes of the June 2025 Spending Review for the Home Office have led to reconsideration of the plans for the processing centre. We will not currently be building the new centre but will instead use available funds to continue delivery of enhancements on site.
Derelict buildings are being demolished. Work is then planned to improve utilities to enable more efficient facilities and reduce operating costs. Plans have been developed with value for money in mind, and with flexibility to reduce capacity depending on operational requirements.
In parallel, the contracts for operator services at the site are being streamlined to reduce costs and will include the ability to scale down or terminate contracts in line with need.