Asylum seekers who were evacuated from the Bibby Stockholm have been told they will return to the barge next week, Sky News understands.

A total of 39 migrants were moved into the floating accommodation in August as part of a government plan to cut down the number being housed in hotels.

But within days, the group of men were moved off the vessel after legionella bacteria was found in the water supply.

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Sky News now understands those 39 people have been sent letters, telling them they will be moved back on to the Bibby Stockholm next week.

The Home Office has been contacted for a response.

The barge is among a number of controversial accommodation options the government has begun rolling out – including former military bases and even the suggestion of large marquees.

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But it has faced fierce opposition from politicians, charities and residents, over the treatment of asylum seekers and the impact on local services.

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Ministers pushed ahead with the move, and a small number of people were put on to the vessel in early August.

But the results from routine water testing came back two days later, showing the bacteria – which can cause a serious type of lung infection known as Legionnaires’ disease.

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At the time, a Home Office spokesperson said the health and welfare of those on board the vessel were “our utmost priority”.

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