The government has refused to comment on reports the Manston site and a second location in Dover are to become permanent facilities for processing asylum seekers.

The plans came to light after the publication of papers relating to a procurement process inviting interested groups to apply to run the centres.

Commercial partners are being told the scheme will involve £700m invested in the ongoing efforts to stop small boats crossing the Channel.

The Home Office has indicated in papers outlining the contract that it expects at least one partner to help set up facilities for processing until possibly 2030.

They state: “The Home Office is currently transforming the site at Manston to establish permanent, purpose-built facilities, coordinated by the Manston Transformation Programme.

“The Programme is looking for partner(s) to deliver a suitable operation and wrap-around services for the operations at Western Jet Foil and Manston, plus Medical Services, for an initial term of six years with an option to extend for an additional 2 x 24 month periods.”

The prospect of two large centres operating for at least six years suggests that the government expects the battle to reduce the numbers crossing the Channel may be prolonged.

Existing “short-term” facilities at Manston and Dover have previously been criticised for poor conditions.

The draft procurement process adds: “The aim of these centres is to provide a safe and secure environment, allowing Border Force to process arrivals with dignity and respect.”

The initiative has drawn a cautious response from North Thanet MP Sir Roger Gale, who tweeted: “Clearly as circumstances change so the Manston Operation has to evolve but I have, to date, been satisfied that the operation has been satisfactory, unobtrusive and well-run. It is in the interests of the Home Office and local people that that remains the case.”

But he said he would be asking for a meeting with the Home Secretary to discuss the idea.

A Home Office spokesperson said it would be "inappropriate to comment" on an ongoing procurement project.