Bibby Stockholm barge to close as asylum accommodation, says Home Office

Extending the Bibby Stockholm contract would have cost more than £20m next year, according to the Home Office. Photograph: Matt Keeble/PA

The Bibby Stockholm, the controversial barge that has been used to accommodate asylum seekers, is to be shut down, the government has said.

Use of the vessel, which is housing 400 people and is moored at Portland, Dorset, will stop when the current contract ends in January 2025.