Update on the Bibby Stockholm barge

As widely reported in the media, the Bibby Stockholm barge has now arrived in to Portland Port.

Weymouth Town Council shared its concerns when the initiative was first announced, and had no say in where the vessel was to be sighted, which was negotiated between the Home Office and Portland Port. However, now that the barge is moored at Portland Port we will continue to work with partners at Dorset Council, Portland Town Council and other agencies to do all we can to support the ongoing arrangements.

The Home Office issued an update on Twitter this morning which said:  

“The Bibby Stockholm has arrived in Portland Port.

“Next week the first asylum seekers will be moved to the vessel as part of a carefully structured plan which will increase the numbers gradually. The Home Office is providing substantial funding to minimise the impact locally.”

For more information on Bibby Stockholm, the latest factsheet from the Home Office is available to read online: Factsheet: Asylum accommodation on a vessel in Portland Port – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

ENDS