The hotel closures come amid protests and local opposition, with hotels becoming a magnet for right-wing anti-migrant protesters. The Bell in Epping became a focus of far-right demonstrations, and the local Tory-led council unsuccessfully blocked its use as a holding place for asylum seekers. Current asylum accommodation statistics show there are around 200 hotels in use, accommodating about 30,000 asylum seekers, while more than 70,000 other asylum seekers live in other types of accommodation such as shared housing or military barracks.
The population in asylum hotels has fallen by nearly 20 percent in the last year and by 45 percent since the peak under the previous government, cutting costs by nearly £1 billion, according to a Home Office spokesperson. The Home Office is due to hold a private event this week, described as an 'industry day' for potential future providers of asylum accommodation, though the department has not disclosed details of the time and venue. Those attending must sign a non-disclosure agreement.
The meeting relates to the re-tendering of asylum contracts from 1 September 2029 until 31 August 2036, with a possible option to extend to 31 August 2039, and the new contract, known as Future Asylum Contracts Accommodation, will enact the government aim of moving away from reliance on hotel accommodation. 4 billion in 2025.