I thought the deal was the Government would pay for refurbishing The Metropole after asylum seekers left
“Doesn't the tax pay for the refurbishment is that not the deal they do with the government.”
The owners of Blackpool’s Metropole Hotel issued an on the building’s security and future after urban explorers went viral with videos showing its abandoned interior.
In the video filmed by the Derelict Detective, the Metropole could be seen in varying states of disrepair, with abandoned plates and tables stacked up and sections of flooring and tiling damaged beyond repair.
A spokesperson told the Gazette: “We are aware of videos circulating online of the Metropole Hotel from urban explorers.”
The news left many readers questioning who was going to pick up the bill for repairs.
Paul Ming Michalowski said: “Was it not part of the contract for the government to pay for refurbishing after asylum seekers left?”
And Jason Riches echoed his concern: “Doesn't the tax pay for the refurbishment is that not the deal they do with the government.”
The Metropole, which is owned by Britannia Hotels, closed its doors as a traditional hotel in September 2021 when it was taken over by the government to house migrants and asylum seekers. The arrangement was initially meant to last for three months but continued for almost five years until the final asylum seekers left over the summer.
Avril Bower said: “How much money did they receive from the government to house them? That money was taxpayers money.”
Hugh Bowie said: “Britannia hotels 18th century inside, haven‘t been refurbished in decades its the same with Norbreck Castle”
Emma Riley said: “I would never go back in there even if it was done up.”