Blackpool leader defends council’s asylum policies amidst social media debate
Cllr Lynn Williams addresses concerns over asylum dispersal accommodation in Blackpool
Following recent discussions on social media regarding asylum dispersal accommodation, Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, has issued a statement clarifying the council's approach to the matter.
Cllr Williams highlighted the importance of maintaining productive relationships with the Home Office, which recently led to the early closure of the Metropole, a local accommodation used for housing asylum seekers.
“Having a professional relationship is much more productive for Blackpool,” Cllr Williams said, referring to the ongoing collaborative efforts with the Home Office.
The council leader underscored that asylum seekers are not housed in Blackpool's social housing. A policy prioritises people with a connection to Blackpool extending over three years, originally implemented for residents relocating from cities such as Manchester and Birmingham.
Despite concerns about asylum dispersal, Cllr Williams reassured the community that Blackpool has not experienced an unusually high proportion of asylum seekers compared to other regions in the North West. Areas like Preston, East Lancashire, and Liverpool have higher proportions.
“It’s not true to say we have three times the national average of asylum seekers," said Cllr Williams, providing context for the ongoing discussions.
She noted that less than 1% of Blackpool's population resides in dispersal accommodation, a figure projected to decrease following the Metropole's closure next month.
Referring to the government's effort to reduce the backlog of claims, Cllr Williams mentioned that those with a legal right to stay might not opt to remain in Blackpool, reassuring that Blackpool's residents are prioritised in the housing queue.
“We will keep making the case for Blackpool to be treated appropriately,” she concluded.