A statement from two local councils have praised the "strong tradition" of "inclusivity, compassion, and support for people in need" following the news a Warwick hotel will be used to house asylum seekers.

The news the Delta Hotel on Stratford Road has closed temporarily for the government contract has been met with a mixed reaction by locals.

Bookings are not being taken at the edge of town site, and security has been installed on site as a rumoured 300 asylum seekers will be given a home there.

A joint statement from Warwick District Council and Warwickshire County Council said: "The Home Office has decided to use a local hotel for the accommodation of Asylum Seekers.

The sign has been covered up (image by James Smith)

"This is the Home Office’s decision as part of a national response to the current challenges within the asylum system.

"We are told that this is a temporary arrangement. We are working closely with the Home Office, Serco, local health services, police, and community organisations to ensure that the needs of both our local community and those seeking refuge are addressed.

"Warwickshire county and Warwick district have a strong tradition of inclusivity, compassion, and support for people in need.

"While we understand the concerns surrounding the impact on local services and facilities, we remain committed to upholding these values and supporting all members of our community.

"We also recognise the important role of local faith groups, charities, and community organisations in supporting individuals during this time, and we thank them for their contributions.

"Together, we can ensure Warwickshire and Warwick District remain a welcoming and resilient community."

The hotel's sign has also be covered over and bookings cannot be made through the company's website.

"The hotel has been temporarily closed for three months and will then reopen," a Marriot Delta Hotel spokesperson said.

"Until then we have a contract with the government."

The hotel simply said it was being used for a government contract (image by James Smith)

Over the past few years the Riverside Hotel on the edge of Kenilworth has been used to house asylum seekers, while the Holiday Inn in the same town was used as a so-called 'quarantine hotel' during the pandemic.