WARRINGTON North’s MP has shared her concerns over plans to close a hotel in the town to the public to accommodate migrants.

It was reported yesterday, Monday, that Holiday Inn in Woolston will be used for ‘temporary accommodation’ for asylum seekers, it is reported – the third such hotel in the town.

The venue, in the constituency of Charlotte Nichols MP, is unavailable to book on its website until at least March 2024, with bookings mainly unavailable for the next 12 months.

Staff at the hotel are said to have been offered alternative work replacements at other locations, while Woolston residents say they have not been contacted regarding the decision.

On the news, Ms Nichols said: “I am concerned at reports that the Home Office is intending to house asylum applicants in the Woolston Holiday Inn, requiring its closure.

“This is despite a failure to properly engage with Warrington Borough Council about these plans.

“I know that the council has sought to get answers about the impact on local amenities, police resource and health services, as well as on the council’s ability to provide for homeless people, but these answers have not been forthcoming.

“The Government has lost control of the asylum system, leaving thousands in limbo while they wait for their cases to be processed.

“Now they have a duty to support vulnerable people in an appropriate way, and to ensure that additional capacity is spread reasonably across the country.

“Warrington already has several hotels being used for accommodating migrants, and I support the council in trying to get proper answers from the Home Office.

“I hope that it recognises its responsibility to balance needs and properly work to find a fair and safe solution rather than imposing a decision on our area.”