Wigan Hotel Removed From Asylum List

A Wigan hotel which was controversially used to house asylum seekers will no longer do so, authorities have confirmed.

News that Serco has removed the Britannia Hotel in Standish from its list of venues offering temporary accommodation for people fleeing war and persecution has been welcomed by Wigan's MP and a local charity working with asylum seekers.

Lisa Nandy MP and the project co-ordinator at the Support for Wigan Arrivals Project (Swap), Mick Taylor, both said the Almond Brook Road hotel was unsuitable for the purpose.

It is believed those who were staying there awaiting news on their claims to remain in Britain have been relocated to other Serco accommodation across the region.

The decision to use the hotel to house asylum seekers has always been controversial, with residents openly criticising the decision, and a petition was started demanding their removal.

MP for Wigan, Lisa Nandy, said:

"It was totally unsuitable for vulnerable asylum seekers who were placed there without any preparation or discussion with local people.

"It's a credit to Wigan that so many people responded with warmth and kindness but placing vulnerable young men and families into a hotel with minimal support is not acceptable and should not happen again."

If you need legal assistance with an asylum claim or any other area of immigration, speak to our solicitors today. Call our team on 01942 366 388 to find out how we can help.

Allansons Solicitors

Asylum and Immigration