Portland Port boss Bill Reeves has welcomed the announcement that a barge with capacity for more than 500 asylum seekers is coming to Dorset.

As reported, the Home Office has confirmed the Bibby Stockholm barge will moor at Portland Port.

A statement from Portland Port said it will be working closely with the government and local partners to "maximise economic benefits from the vessel and minimise the impact on public services in the area."

The statement also continued: "There will also be investment in buildings and infrastructure to support the facility, ensure the essential needs of its occupants are met and for it become as self-sufficient as possible."

READ: Asylum seekers to be housed in barge off Dorset coast, Home Office confirms

Bill Reeves, chief executive of Portland Port, said: “We welcome this investment in the port and local economy.

“We will be working closely with the Home Office to maximise the benefits and business opportunities while minimising any impact on public services.

“We understand local concerns and, as the port operator and a local business, have a vested interest of our own in the safe and secure use of the vessel.

“We are insisting that no economic migrants, criminals or under 18s are included in the population on board under a robust screening process.

“We are keen to ensure that only those people considered suitable and most deserving after passing strict checks are able to reside at Portland.

“There will be close co-operation with local agencies, including the health, welfare and emergency services during the preparations for the vessel’s arrival and its operation. We also hope to work closely with local community and voluntary groups.”

The barge, called the Bibby Stockholm, will accommodate about 500 people whilst their asylum claims are processed. 

It is reported the barge will provide "basic and functional accommodation", s well as healthcare provision, catering facilities and 24/7 security.

It is due to be operational for 18 months initially and will stay berthed in the port during that time.

Bill added: “We are keen to play our part in the national effort to house some of the thousands of people needing accommodation.

“Some of the asylum seekers coming to Portland Port may be from war-torn countries where they have seen their communities destroyed, friends and family killed or have been in danger of losing their own lives.

“Many are traumatised but decent people who deserve a safe haven, and a welcome worthy of the warmth and decency of local people.

“Although they won’t be able to work, we hope that some of the asylum seekers will be able to volunteer and make a contribution to the local area too.

“We encourage everyone in the community to approach this with an open mind and help us show other areas just how successful this type of initiative can be, both for the asylum seekers and the local community.

“We will endeavour to keep everyone updated throughout this process.”