An enforcement notice has been issued by the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service concerning fire safety on the Bibby Stockholm barge, currently docked at Portland Port. The vessel, which is housing asylum seekers, has been flagged for needing urgent improvements to its fire safety provisions.
The notice outlines a series of deficiencies that must be rectified to ensure the safety of those on board and the operational staff. While the specific details of the notice have not been fully disclosed, it is understood to cover aspects ranging from fire escape routes and alarm systems to fire suppression equipment and staff training.
The Bibby Stockholm has been a central component of the government's strategy to reduce the cost of accommodating asylum seekers in hotels and deter illegal migration. Its use has been contentious since its inception, attracting criticism from human rights organisations and local residents alike regarding living conditions and safety standards.
A spokesperson for the Home Office confirmed they are working in close collaboration with the vessel's operator, Corporate Travel Management (CTM), and the fire service to address the issues raised. They emphasised that the safety and welfare of individuals on board the Bibby Stockholm remain a top priority, and all recommendations from the fire service will be acted upon promptly.
This development adds to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the government's asylum policies and the practical implementation of alternative accommodation solutions. Previous concerns about the barge have included overcrowding and access to essential services, alongside the broader ethical considerations of housing vulnerable individuals in such a setting.