Number of asylum seekers at ex-RAF base in Essex to rise by more than 50%

Wethersfield is one of only two Home Office mass accommodation sites and was already the largest. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

The Home Office is increasing the number of asylum seekers accommodated at a controversial military base by more than 50%.

There are about 800 asylum seekers housed at the remote former RAF base MDP Wethersfield in Essex and the Home Office is moving in 445 more.