Hastings Building Used to House Asylum Seekers Set to Become Hotel Again

A building in Hastings that has been used to house asylum seekers is set to return to its former role as a hotel, marking the end of its time as part of the Government’s emergency accommodation network. The property, which had been repurposed to accommodate people awaiting the outcome of their asylum claims, will now […]

A building in Hastings that has been used to house asylum seekers is set to return to its former role as a hotel, marking the end of its time as part of the Government’s emergency accommodation network.

The property, which had been repurposed to accommodate people awaiting the outcome of their asylum claims, will now be redeveloped for commercial use. The change comes amid a wider national move away from the long-term use of hotels to house asylum seekers, a policy that expanded significantly in recent years as the number of arrivals increased.

During its use as asylum accommodation, the building became a focal point of local discussion, with residents raising concerns about transparency, planning arrangements and the prolonged nature of what was originally intended to be a temporary measure. Similar issues have been raised in towns and cities across the UK where hotels and large buildings were adapted for asylum use without clear timeframes for their return to normal operation.

The decision to revert the Hastings site back into a hotel reflects efforts by the Government to reduce reliance on hotel accommodation, which has been criticised for its cost and unsuitability as a long-term housing solution. Ministers have repeatedly stated their intention to return properties to communities and move asylum seekers into alternative accommodation as part of reforms to the system.

Supporters of the move say reopening the building as a hotel could provide an economic boost to the town, creating jobs and increasing visitor capacity in a popular coastal destination. Others argue it highlights the instability and short-term thinking that has characterised asylum accommodation policy in recent years.

Any redevelopment plans are expected to go through the appropriate planning process, with the local authority overseeing any required change of use. The transition marks a new chapter for the building and reflects the shifting national approach to asylum accommodation, as communities look to move forward after years of uncertainty.