Calls for asylum hotel to be returned to former glory

Calls have been made to restore to former glory a locally-listed hotel which has been used as asylum accommodation for almost five years.

The Metropole Hotel is one of Blackpool’s oldest and finest buildings, steeped in the history of the town and unique for sitting directly on the seaward side of the Promenade.

It is on record for holding Blackpool’s first town council meeting in April 1876 and has been described as one of the town’s “crown jewels”.

However, in September 2021 around 140–220 people were initially moved into the hotel by the Home Office due to “unprecedented demand” for accommodation, despite objections from local officials.

It has now finally been announced that the migrants will leave in July, to be housed in asylum accommodation outside Blackpool.

What they say

Blackpool hotelier Ian White has welcomed the news that a landmark hotel is to return to tourism purposes,  while Blackpool South MP Chris Webb says he is to speak to owners Britannia Hotels about it being restored to its former glory.

Mr White said: “The expectation is that, following the government contract, there will be a period of refurbishment, potentially 6 to 12 months before the property returns to holiday use which could deliver some ease on the towns bed stock issues

“Recognising that Britannia cater for budget holidays for the masses, this could be good news, especially at a time when staying visitors are in shorter supply

“Add in the fact that the Metropole sits at the south end of the colonnades that stretch along North Promenade.”

Mr Webb says the condition of the hotel has deteriorated over the past four years but is happy that it can be returned to its original purpose of serving Blackpool’s famous tourism industry.

He said:  “I am now going to be reaching out to Britannia to ensure they now re-purpose this building, refurbish it, bring it back to its former glory so it can be a crown jewel again in our tourism offer.”

Britannia Hotels were approached for a comment.

History of the Metropole

• Early History: Originally known as Bailey’s Hotel, it served as a popular coastal spot. It held Blackpool’s first town council meeting in April 1876.
• Development: Rebuilt and renamed the Metropole in 1896 by J.T. Murray, it expanded to its current size around 1900, adding the Princes Parade section.
• The War Effort: During World War II, the hotel was requisitioned by the government.
• Butlins Era: In 1955, it was purchased by Billy Butlin, becoming a key hotel for the company, often featuring famous “Red Coats”.
• Modern Era: Currently owned by Britannia Hotels, it has undergone renovations while retaining its Victorian façade.
• Asylum Accommodation: From roughly 2021 to 2026, the hotel was used to house asylum seekers, drawing local attention and council concern over its use.
• Reopening Plan: In April 2026, it was confirmed the hotel would close as an asylum centre to return to accommodating tourists.