The centre, on former MoD land, would hold 750 people

A date has been set for an appeal to be heard at the Royal Courts of Justice against the permission granted for the 750-strong centre, near Bicester.

Cherwell District Council was told the hearing will be held on 7 or 8 July.

In March this year, the High Court dismissed a challenge by the council against John Prescott's decision to approve the development of the centre.

System reform

In May, the council was granted leave to appeal by Lord Justice Carnwath against the High Court decision.

Campaigners are unhappy that the former Ministry of Defence (MoD) land between Arncott and Piddington has been earmarked for a centre to house 400 single men, 50 single women and 300 family members.

The asylum seekers will stay at the centre while they wait to find out if their applications have been successful.

At the High Court, the council's lawyers had argued that the deputy prime minister had ignored the results of a public inquiry when he granted planning permission.

The government says the building is an essential and necessary part of their reform of the asylum system.