A sixth local authority is reportedly taking legal action to stop the government using a hotel to house asylum seekers, which will inadvertently have an impact on the rental sector if successful, as it would place even greater pressure on demand for housing.

North Northamptonshire council wants to block migrants being accommodated at the Royal Hotel in Kettering.

The authority applied to the high court for an emergency injunction and is considering its next steps after this was dismissed.

Council leader Jason Smithers said: “We do not feel that the Royal Hotel in Kettering is the appropriate place to accommodate asylum seekers for a number of reasons.

“We do not feel the proposals have been properly considered to ensure the best possible welfare can be provided to asylum seekers and the local communities in which they are housed.

“We are now considering our options in light of the injunction’s dismissal by the high court.”

Five other local authorities are also taking legal action: East Riding of Yorkshire council, Ipswich Borough council, Stoke City council, Great Yarmouth borough council, and Fenland district council.