Home Office send written confirmation it will not buy the former Bridge Hotel for asylum seekers

The Home Office has confirmed in writing it will not go ahead in purchasing the former Bridge Hotel in Sutton Bridge for asylum seekers.

Following a public outcry at the move earlier this year, a meeting heard that South Holland District Council would seek written assurance from the government it wouldn’t go ahead with the purchase.

South Holland MP Sir John Hayes had recently said he’d had verbal agreement from the previous minister for border security and asylum Alex Norris.

And today (Friday August 7) district council leader Nick Worth received the confirmation by the person who has replace them in that position, Anna Turley.

The letter apologies for the delay and says: “The department has been undertaking a full assessment of the viability of the Waterford Apartments in Sutton Bridge and in light of the information provided my officials have instructed Serco not to continue with the procurement of this site for asylum accommodation.

“While the Home Office will not be moving forward with this site, official remain committed to working closely with South Holland District Council to identify suitable opportunities to support the growth of the asylum accommodation estate in your area.”

The letter also states: “The Home Office provides support under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 to asylum seekers and their dependents who would otherwise be destitute in order to comply with its legal obligations.

“The Home Office is committed to ensuring that destitute asylum seekers are housed in safe, secure and suitable accommodation and that they are treated with dignity while their asylum claim is considered.”