Shrewsbury and Atcham Conservative officers held a meeting to discuss plans to increase the number of refugees being housed within the Lion Hotel in Shrewsbury.
As an Association our officers are unanimously against refugees being housed within the Lion Hotel, a prominent building located on the gateway into the town.
As a group, it is felt there are more suitable locations for use outside of the town centre.
The government's plan will increase anxiety among residents and businesses within the area, many of whom have already been affected by the plan. Whilst we appreciate arrangements need to be made within the county to house refugees, we firmly believe the location chosen is neither suitable nor viable long term, given the location within the town. SACA has also been informed that the increase in refugee numbers would lead to the possibility of non-compliance with fire regulations and licence conditions, with the legal maximum number of guests being significantly lower.
We have already seen issues arise from housing refugees in this location and we urge the Home Office to clarify how they will comply with all necessary planning and licencing requirements and to review their decision with immediate effect.
