Llanelli MP gets cold shoulder at Essex company HQ allegedly behind Stradey Park Hotel asylum seeker plans

The Labour MP made the journey to Sterling Woodrow after the home office confirmed plans to house up to 207 people, made up of family groups, across 77 rooms at the hotel.

The Furnace Action Committee, a group formed after a public meeting to debate the asylum seekers plan, have described the proposals as “a barmy, half-baked scheme which will damage the community of Furnace and Llanelli and one which is not in the best interests of asylum seekers.”

On a social media post, Nia Griffiths said: “Today I called at the Essex office of two companies which appear to be linked to ownership of the Stradey Park. 

“The staff there claimed any decisions would be above their pay grade, and that the named directors I asked for were not there, but that they do call in. So I left copies of letters I’ve also sent them, imploring them to drop any plans for asylum seekers and stressing the irreparable damage it will do to their business, as people and the community will never forget.”

Dame Nia added: “Wales is a welcoming country and, here in Llanelli, we have proudly played our part down the years in supporting those who have fled war and persecution elsewhere in the world in pursuit of safety. 

“However, this proposal is unworkable, risks putting extra pressure on local services and creates a situation that could prove problematic for nearby residents and for the asylum seekers themselves. 

“I will continue to vigorously oppose this plan for those reasons.”

Swansea Bay News has approached Sterling Woodrow for comment, but has not had a reply at the time of publication.

(Lead image: Dame Nia Griffiths MP)