Manston: factsheet
Updated 23 October 2025
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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.
What are the next steps?
The Home Office is seeking planning approval to continue using the site for its current purpose and to improve the infrastructure.
Planning permission is being sought through the Urgent Crown Development route, which allows planning applications for nationally important development. The planning application has been submitted and is under consideration by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
Works are underway to demolish two derelict buildings and clear any contamination. Work is then planned to improve utilities, to improve infrastructure, 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.