Altrincham has always been a sought-after location, known for its vibrant town centre, excellent schools, and beautiful residential areas. In recent times, however, a new topic of conversation has entered the local discourse: the use of hotels, such as the Cresta Court, to house asylum seekers. This has prompted many questions from residents, including concerns about the potential impact on our community and, specifically, on local house prices.
As a law firm deeply rooted in the Altrincham community, we at KhanMather Solicitors understand these concerns and believe it’s important to provide clarity on the legal and practical aspects of this issue.
The Legal Obligation
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework. The UK government has a statutory obligation under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 to provide accommodation and support to asylum seekers who are destitute while their claims are being processed.
For years, the Home Office has relied on a “dispersal” model, where asylum seekers are placed in private rental accommodation across the country. However, due to a significant increase in asylum applications and a shortage of suitable housing, the government has increasingly turned to hotels as a form of “contingency accommodation.” While the government has stated its commitment to ending the use of hotels, this temporary measure remains in place.
Impact on Local Communities
The decision to use a hotel as asylum accommodation is a Home Office matter, often made with limited consultation with local authorities or residents. This lack of transparency has understandably led to frustration and concern within communities like Altrincham.
Some of the key concerns raised by residents and local councils include:
- Strain on Local Services: There are worries about the additional pressure on already stretched services such as healthcare, education, and policing.
- Loss of a Community Asset: The repurposing of a hotel means the loss of a venue for weddings, conferences, and tourism, which can impact the local economy.
- Community Cohesion: The sudden change can sometimes lead to tension and division, as seen by the protests and counter-protests that have taken place outside Altrincham’s Cresta Court hotel.
The Question of House Prices
When it comes to the effect on house prices, the situation is complex. There are arguments on both sides, and research on the matter is varied.
- Potential Negative Impact: Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that the presence of asylum seeker accommodation can have a negative effect on local property values, particularly in areas with lower-priced, lower-quality housing. The argument is that some residents may choose to move out, creating a downward pressure on prices. This can be exacerbated by negative sentiment or public perception, which may deter potential buyers.
- Minimal or No Impact: Conversely, other reports and research suggest that the impact is minimal, or even non-existent, especially in established, high-demand areas. The presence of asylum seeker accommodation is often just one of many factors that influence house prices. The overall strength of the local market, including job opportunities, school ratings, and other amenities, typically has a far greater effect.
In Altrincham, a town with a strong property market and a reputation for being a desirable place to live, it is unlikely that the presence of one or two hotels housing asylum seekers would be the sole factor in causing a significant drop in house prices across the board. However, it’s important to recognise that individual properties in very close proximity to the affected hotels might see some degree of fluctuation or a longer time on the market.
Our Perspective as a Law Firm
At KhanMather, we advise clients on a wide range of property and legal matters. While we cannot predict the future of the housing market, we can provide guidance on the legal implications of property transactions and disputes.
If you are a homeowner or a potential buyer in the Altrincham area and have concerns, our advice is to:
- Seek Informed Legal Advice: Understand your legal rights and obligations.
- Conduct Thorough Research: Look at the wider market trends in the area, not just a single, isolated factor.
- Focus on the long-term view: The use of hotels for asylum seekers is a temporary measure, and the government has a stated policy of ending this practice.
The situation in Altrincham is a microcosm of a much larger, national issue. As a community, we must navigate this challenge with understanding and an informed perspective. While the legal and logistical aspects are complex, our role is to help our clients understand their position and make sound decisions based on accurate information, not speculation.