Concerned residents came out in force to show their opposition to hosting asylum seekers in their village — despite no plans being on the table.
There had been interest in the revamped Bridge Hotel in Sutton Bridge from the Home Office — but the developer ruled out this option and said the flats in the new-look building would be available for rent on the open market to individuals instead.
All those against the idea of an asylum seeker facility raise their hands during a packed out meeting at Sutton Bridge’s Curlew Centre. Photo: Iliffe Media
However, the statement from API Property Investments did not ease concerns, and residents gathered to air those at the Curlew Centre tonight (Friday June 5). At the meeting they heard that MP Sir John Hayes has been given a ‘cast iron guarantee’ from API that they would not be doing a deal with the Home Office during a meeting earlier today — re-affirming the company’s denial of the idea last week.
Sir John, who was joined by South Holland District Council leader Nick Worth at the head of the meeting, said the interest from the Home Office never even got as far as negotiating a price or contract — backing up the firm’s earlier comments on the matter.
The meeting came a day after the site was subject to an arson attack.
It was standing room only at the venue, with an estimated 400 people in attendance — many of whom were outside as the meeting was conducted.
District councillor Michael Booth takes the mic in front of a panel headed by MP Sir John Hayes and South Holland District Council leader Nick Worth. Photo: Iliffe MediaIt was standing room only at the Curlew Centre. Photo: Iliffe Media
A show of hands showed virtually unanimous opposition to the Government ever using the former Bridge Hotel for asylum seekers. An earlier suggestion that not everyone opposed the idea was met with boos — and the lady who said this left.
A packed Curlew Centre. Photo: Iliffe Media
The building has been subject to a £1.5 million regeneration project — with API aiming to reverse the decay of a landmark site that had become a blot on the landscape at the gateway to the county. One and two bedroom flats are being marketed for rent (at £650 a month and £750 a month respectively) through the Property Panda website.
Sir John said the people of Sutton Bridge felt ‘targeted’ — having previously seen plans for an asphalt plant and incinerator floated.
He said: “This meeting shows the solidarity of the community. We have fought battles before.”
He promised to stop the idea ever coming to fruition and said he would raise the matter with senior Government figures.
SHDC executive director Jason King said the council is in regular contact with the Home Office and will provide further details as soon as it can. The council has this week refused to comment on the arson attack.
Deputy mayor of Greater Lincolnshire Ingrid Sheard said: “Let’s all get together with one loud voice.”
At the end of the meeting, Sir John asked the crowd ‘are you ready to win this fight?’, which was met with loud cheers.