A district council says it will not buy a hotel at the centre of a row over asylum seekers for residents on its housing waiting list after the idea was mooted.
Former councillor, Peter Coupland has also suggested the authority buy the hotel which it says the Home Office is looking to do to house asylum seekers (see Letters on page eight).
But the council has said it will not be looking to purchase the building.
A council spokesman said: “Compulsory Purchase Orders are an important tool available to local authorities, although they can involve a lengthy and complex process.
“They are most commonly used for large infrastructure projects where there is a clear, funded business case, following careful consideration of all other options.
“In this instance, the use of a Compulsory Purchase Order is not considered appropriate.
“The council will continue to work closely with residents, businesses and stakeholders to find positive and collaborative solutions.”
Leader Nick Worth had told Friday’s meeting he would look into it, but said: “As a council we have to get value for money and get the best value for the tax payer.
“I’ve no idea what that would cost. I suspect API would want a lot of money for it.”
Sir John told the meeting: “We were all keen that Bridge Hotel would be done up.
“It’s been a long time.
“We hoped it would be available for the local people.”
