The Home Office has performed a surprise U-turn and won't be taking over Southport's Pontins Holiday Park.
Sefton Council confirmed to the ECHO this afternoon plans that included a potential government takeover of the holiday park are no longer in place. The ECHO understands the Home Office previously approached Sefton Council regarding the use of the site.
Concerns were raised in the Ainsdale area regarding the impact the potential takeover would have on the local economy. Joseph Abbott, manager of the local sports bar Champs, previously said they rely heavily on business from the holiday park.
READ MORE: Home Office declines to answer what they might want Pontins for
Mr Abbott added: "It would be a massive worry if Pontins closed. I hope to god it doesn't. But others in the village weren't so positive, calling the park a "a horrible place" and an "eyesore". One man, who spoke to the ECHO on the basis of anonymity, said: "You ask anyone around Ainsdale and they'll all say the same thing - Pontins is embarrassing."
Southport MP Damien Moore previously called the park "the biggest blight on Ainsdale", but admitted it was crucial for an area that relies on tourism and hospitality to account for "over 40% of its economy".
But today Sefton Council said it had been confirmed the Home Office was no longer pursuing plans. A spokesperson for the council told the ECHO: "Following detailed discussions between the Sefton Council chief executive and colleagues from the Home Office, we have now been informed that the Home Office no longer wish to pursue plans to house asylum seekers at the Pontins site in Ainsdale. We are awaiting written confirmation of this decision."
The Home Office never confirmed it was looking at the site. A spokesperson previously said: "We continue to look at all available options to source appropriate and cost-effective temporary accommodation." But both the council and Mr Moore's office confirmed to the ECHO discussions had been ongoing.
Mr Moore said it would not be appropriate to house asylum seekers at the park while other options had not been considered. Prime minister Rishi Sunak said last week in parliament the government would be considering "disused holiday parks".
The ECHO approached Britannia Hotels on a number of occasions for comment in response to the takeover talks. The hotel chain did not respond to any of the requests.
The ECHO has approached Mr Moore for further comment.
READ NEXT:
Man gouged dad's eyes after being told football 'just a game'
Killer who bludgeoned his mum to death with hammer told to pay up £100,000
Met Office forecast as snow predicted on two days this month
Young mum died after thinking her symptoms were 'baby brain'
Boohoo's £20 dress spotted on Stacey Solomon at her baby shower
