Fury in UK seaside town as flats refurbished to house migrants | UK | News
Residents of a Welsh seaside town are angry at a decision to renovate housing for the use of asylum seekers. The decision to house individuals in Llandudno under the UK Government’s Resettlement scheme was criticized by councilors and residents after the council approved the plans.
Two local Reform UK councilors have raised concerns about funding and “fairness”, arguing that properties should be “prioritised” for local people. Major Louise Emery, Reform leader in Conwy, said: “This is about fairness. I want Llandudno families to be prioritized and given first choice on renovated vacant properties in the town centre. The resettlement scheme by its nature creates temporary residents while they await a decision on their asylum application, whereas I would like to see Llandudno families settled permanently in suitable accommodation in the town.”
A statement from the Conwy Reform Group said: “With hundreds of families on the waiting list for homes in the Llandudno area, priority should be given to these residents.
“Bringing properties back into use, particularly flats above retail units, is vital to tackle the housing waiting list.”
The asylum seekers’ accommodation will be managed by Home Office contractor Clear Springs Ready Homes, which plans to renovate the flats on behalf of the landlord.
Conwy’s resettlement teams, supported by Home Office grants, will then provide assistance to the asylum seekers, according to North Wales Live.
Reform councilor Tom Montgomery took aim at the Welsh Government and said: “For years we have seen little progress at a local level in converting empty spaces above shops into homes for local people.
“Although the Welsh Government has finally provided some funding for city center housing, it is too late for (some) individuals, including children who are literally growing up in temporary accommodation.”
He continued: “Now the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ contractor is proving that these areas can be converted into residential areas.
“We need to see local housing organizations show the same dedication to providing local housing as the Home Office resettlement contractor.”
Some locals were equally outraged by the decision, with one fuming: “Did you think there was a waiting list for housing?
Another added: “It’s a shame there are so many homeless people and veterans on our streets.
“They should have the right to housing.”
A third commented: “Wait, have I been told you have to wait years for council housing?”
A Conwy County Council spokesman said: “Clear Springs Ready Homes appoints its own housing officers. Resettlement teams at local authorities provide support and guidance.
“Resettlement teams are funded by grants from the Home Office and Welsh Government.
“All the work of these teams supporting those seeking shelter, including translation, is covered by the grant.”
