PEOPLE in Lee-on-the-Solent may have to wait months for a decision on the government's plan to put a centre for asylum seekers on their doorsteps.

Residents and politicians fighting the plans were furious at the latest news and demanded an early decision.

Following a meeting between Home Office officials and Gosport council representatives, a date in May had been given as D-day for a decision on pressing ahead with the application.

But now Whitehall is saying the decision could be some time off.

The announcement has been criticised by campaigners who say the situation for residents is being made worse by the inability of the government to firm up a date when a decision could be expected.

Chairman of the Daedalus Action Group John Beavis said: "Throughout the whole process there has been no consultation.

"We have seen comings and goings at the Daedalus site but have been given no indication as to the thought process or what decisions are being made and when they are being made. We feel we are being ignored."

A Home Office official refused to tell the Daily Echo whether it would be days, weeks, or months before they decide whether to apply for planning permission for a centre at Daedalus.

A spokesman said: "The site meets our requirements for size and location but we are not in a position to say when any announcements will be made."

Gosport MP Peter Viggers has tabled a parliamentary question demanding Home Office minister Beverley Hughes gives a definite date.

He said: "It has been very frustrating for everyone. The campaigners have been very active in getting all their information together to fight off the plans.

"It's difficult to know what action they can take when they do not have a date to work to."

The earliest Mr Viggers expects a written reply is tomorrow.

During his meeting with Home Office officials in March Gosport Council leader Shaun Cully was told an announcement would be made between early and mid-May.

Cllr Cully said questions have to be raised over whether the Home Office could be trusted.

"I don't know what the Home Office is going on about. They told me they would reach a decision by mid- May once they have all the information together.

"If they don't keep to the timescale they set it doesn't bode very well for the future. Will we be able to trust them again?"