A MEETING will be held before any decision is made on whether or not asylum seekers will be accommodated in the Holiday Inn Express at Manvers again - and a local residents’ group have pleaded with the Home Office to not renew the contract.
On Sunday, August 4, a violent riot took place at the site and many Barnsley thugs have subsequently been sentenced.
They were protesting against the hotel being used as accommodation for asylum seekers, before the site was targeted and police were attacked.
Local MP John Healey has asked for an update on the site - and it’s been confirmed a meeting will take place before any decision is made.
Dame Angela Eagle, Minister for Border Security and Asylum, said: “The Home Office condemns the recent public disorder targeting asylum seekers, immigration lawyers, our staff and buildings.
“The violent attacks we have seen at hotels included attempted arson, deliberate blocking of fire escapes, bricks to windows and verbal and physical abuse intended to intimidate our staff and those in our care.
“Anyone taking part in this criminal activity online or on our streets will, as we have already seen, face the full force of the law.
“The Home Office is aware of the concerns raised by the local authority and police, following recent meetings, regarding the possibility of reopening of the hotel.
“The Home Office has committed to hold a meeting with the local authority and local police before any decision is made on whether this site will be used again to accommodate asylum seekers.
“During this meeting the Home Office will listen to all concerns regarding the use of the site and this information will be taken into consideration when any decision is made.
“Please be assured that the safety and security of those accommodated on sites, staff and local communities are of the utmost importance and we will continue to engage with the local police and other stakeholders to ensure accommodation sites remain safe and secure.”
The Manvers Residents’ Association have said there has been a ‘clear’ rise in antisocial behaviour since the site was used by asylum seekers - and admit they fear more protests could take place should the site still be used in the same way.
“The increase in criminal behaviour in the area, and the recent violent protests and resulting damage to property, have led homeowners concerned for their safety, property and the impact this will have on insurance premiums and house prices at a time when personal finances are already being stretched with increased living costs,” they said.“The recent violent protests have had a major impact on the personal lives on many of our residents and their continued anxieties and fear are a direct result of the decision to house asylum seekers in a residential area.
“There are obviously increased concerns that violent protests could happen again in the future should asylum seekers continue to be housed at the Holiday Inn.
“Although we appreciate the need to house asylum seekers nationally, it is nit fair that local people should live in fear in their own homes as a result.
“Since the Holiday Inn has stopped trading as a hotel, the general appearance and increased litter in the area has made the Holiday Inn an eyesore within our community.
“We are aware that the contract to house asylum seekers at the hotel is due for renewal in October and urge all parties involved to consider the impact this will have on our local community and the people of Manvers.
“Residents feel their voices are not heard.
“We urge you not to renew the contract to house asylum seekers at the Holiday Inn at Manvers for the sake of our local community.”
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