Conwy County Council has confirmed the properties will be used under the UK Government’s Resettlement Scheme. The asylum seeker accommodation will be provided by Home Office contractor Clear Springs Ready Homes, which intends to refurbish the flats on behalf of the landlord.
Janet Finch-Saunders MS, Member of the Senedd for Aberconwy, said the plans have generated “significant concern” among residents and businesses, who she said are anxious about the potential impact on the town.
She also raised concerns for individuals and families who have spent lengthy periods on housing waiting lists or in temporary accommodation, saying many “feel disheartened by yet another setback”.
Ms Finch-Saunders said: “I have been inundated with emails and visits from residents worried about plans to use flats in Llandudno to house asylum seekers.
“Local residents and businesses are understandably anxious about the future of the town and disappointed by the lack of communication surrounding these proposals.
“It is also deeply unfair on those who have been on housing waiting lists for long periods or have been placed in temporary accommodation while trying to support their families. Many are desperate for stability, and this news will be heartbreaking for them. I have seen a significant increase this year in people urgently seeking housing support.
“I have now written to the Leader of the Council, Cllr Julie Fallon, requesting a formal statement on this matter, setting out how the process will work and providing answers to the many questions residents have raised.”
In her letter to Cllr Fallon, Ms Finch-Saunders said she had been contacted by residents and business owners seeking reassurance and clearer information about how the decision had been taken.
She wrote: “Many of them are seeking reassurance, clear information, and a better understanding of how this decision has been made, what consultation has taken place, and what support, if any, will be provided to both the local community and those who may be resettled here.
“I would also welcome a formal statement that can be shared with residents and businesses to address the concerns being raised. Clear communication at this stage will be essential in preventing uncertainty, speculation and anxiety within the community.”
A Conwy County Council spokesperson said: “Clear Springs Ready Homes assign their own housing officer. Resettlement teams in local authorities offer support and signposting. Resettlement teams are funded by grants from the Home Office and the Welsh Government. All the work of these teams supporting sanctuary seekers is covered by the grant, including translation.”
They added: “Families seeking asylum in Wales can access social services support, especially for children’s welfare and safeguarding. Support is generally for needs such as child protection, essential care, or interim help while waiting for Home Office support, not mainstream benefits.
“Children seeking asylum in Wales have the same right to free, compulsory, full-time education as other resident children.”