Controversial asylum seeker hotel plan to be scrapped after just two months

A hotel housing asylum seekers in Wigan will now shut its doors after just two months of being in operation, according to a local MP.

Kilhey Court Hotel in Standish was announced as the second hotel to house migrants in the town by the Home Office back in August, which raised huge protests amongst locals. Objectors believed the plush hotel was an unsuitable location due to its lack of access to local amenities, limited public transport, and being on a national speed limit road without a pavement on the doorstep.

Wigan MP Lisa Nandy has now confirmed, just two months after the original decision, the government now agrees with the protestations from her, campaign groups and the council.

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In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the shadow cabinet minister for international development said: “After months of repeated representations from myself, the police and Wigan Council it is welcome that the government has finally recognised that Kilhey Court is unsuitable for vulnerable asylum seekers.

“I have asked the Home Office for clarification that any asylum seekers affected by hotel closures will be rehoused in suitable, supported accommodation and not simply evicted, as has been reported.

“After a difficult time for people in Standish having to put up with media attention, protests and demonstrations. I hope this decision marks the start of a more respectful relationship between the government and our community, where we are involved in decisions that affect us in future.”

Last month, over 3,500 people signed a petition, and more than 100 people gathered at