The housing and care services provider will also house and support service users in Scotland, North East England and Yorkshire and the Humber.

The company will work with the Home Office and service users in the “Mobilisation” period leading up to 1 April 2019 to make sure that accommodation that is used in the new AASC contract meets the required quality standard.

Mears has said it will establish operational teams in each of the areas for it is responsible so that it is in a position to provide the best possible performance, within the terms of the contract. This will include identifying support needs, managing community cohesion issues, and developing strong partnerships with local authorities and in communities.

Mears COO John Taylor said: “Mears provides housing and care to many thousands of people all across the UK, including some who are vulnerable. This experience, combined with our expertise in housing repairs and maintenance, means we are a strong partner for the government to deliver asylum accommodation and support that is safe, habitable and fit for purpose.

“We will immediately start work on the Mobilisation so that we are ready to meet the needs of asylum seekers and their host communities.”