Concerns have been raised over Erskine’s ability to cope with almost 200 asylum seekers who started to arrive at a hotel in the town yesterday.

The refugees – all men aged between 18 and 40 – will be given a temporary home at the Muthu Glasgow River Hotel at a rate of around 20 per week until the 174-bed capacity is reached.

However, Erskine Community Council fears the new arrivals could put added strain on local services such as health, which are already under significant pressure.

A spokesperson said: “Why was no consultation undertaken? There is strong community feeling that this has been agreed in a wrongful and underhanded manner.

“We are not against being charitable to those in need. However, this has not allowed us to plan for integration and assistance.”

The asylum seekers, primarily from the Middle East, aren’t allowed to work but can attend further education classes.

There will also be English language classes in the hotel and the chance of voluntary work in the local community.

Due to a backlog in asylum applications, some refugees could be at the hotel – formerly known as the Erskine Bridge Hotel – for up to a year.

The Gazette: Discarded furniture outside the Muthu Glasgow River Hotel, which will be home to 174 asylum seekersDiscarded furniture outside the Muthu Glasgow River Hotel, which will be home to 174 asylum seekers (Image: Newsquest)

The project is managed by the Mears Group, which operates 10 hotel sites across Scotland – of which Erskine will be the biggest.

A Mears spokesperson said: “Due to the rise in the number of people seeking asylum and a shortage of suitable accommodation, hotels are being used as a contingency by the Home Office. They are assessed prior to use to ensure they are of an appropriate standard, including 24-hour reception.

“The safety and welfare of our users is of the utmost importance and we have in place a team of welfare support officers.”

Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said: “I haven’t yet received formal notification that the first asylum seekers will be arriving this week.

“I want to make sure the right supports are in place for both residents of the hotel and the wider community.

“However, it’s worth noting that hotels in Paisley and Greenock have similarly hosted asylum seekers for a number of months, with no reported issues.”

Renfrewshire Council is working with Mears to ensure support is in place for those arriving in Erskine.

A spokesperson said: “Renfrewshire has a history of welcoming people into its communities, especially those who are in need. We are confident this will be no different.”