Ahsan Ullah, CEO of the hotel’s owner Ullcom Group, has confirmed that the “difficult decision” to cease operations was taken on Monday afternoon and has not been made lightly.
In a statement released via social media, Mr Ullah has said that the company is “working urgently and diligently to resolve the matters underlying this decision” in a bid to return the hotel to normal service.
The move has triggered widespread disruption for staff and guests, with the CEO admitting that he “recognises and regrets” the significant impact on those with upcoming events and bookings.
The company has pledged to support those affected, stating: “We will do everything within our capacity to assist customers with alternative arrangements where possible.”
However, the closure has drawn a sharp response from Nia Griffith MP, who has described the events of the week as a “devastating blow” for the hardworking staff in Llanelli.
Dame Nia has confirmed she has been in direct contact with the Immigration Minister, Alex Morris MP, within the last 24 hours to seek urgent assurances about the hotel’s future.
In a move that will bring relief to many in the Llanelli community, she has revealed that the Home Office has given “immediate, firm assurances” that the site will NOT be used for asylum seekers.
“This Labour Government is closing asylum hotels, not opening them,” Dame Nia has stated, seeking to reassure residents after the site’s controversial history under previous plans.
The MP has now called on the current owners to provide “more clarity on its future intentions” as a matter of urgency to protect the hotel as a community asset.
She has also confirmed that her top priority is ensuring that staff receive all necessary support from Carmarthenshire County Council and the Welsh Government during this difficult time.
Customers with upcoming bookings are being urged by the hotel to contact them directly via email with their booking references to begin the process of seeking alternative arrangements or refunds.