The government plans to reduce costs of placing migrants in hotels by returning migrants to accommodation barges later this year.

Onboard the Bibby Stockholm, moored in Portland, Dorset, food supplies have already been brought on board.

Following the discovery of Legionella bacteria in the water supply, the floating vessel, which can hold up to 500 asylum seekers, was evacuated in August.

It is now “safe and secure,” according to the Home Office.

In August, traces of Legionella bacteria were found on board the vessel, less than a week after the migrants boarded. All 39 migrants were disembarked as a precaution.

It is possible for Legionnaires disease, a type of pneumonia, to be caused by Legionella bacteria.

Asylum accommodation continues to be offered based on a “no-choice” policy.

It was seen earlier this week that a supply van had arrived with food, including fresh vegetables, and was being taken on board.

Local councillor Carralyn Parkes lost a High Court battle against Home Secretary Suella Braverman over the lawfulness of housing asylum seekers on the barge.

Mrs Parkes’ case was not arguable, according to Mr Justice Holgate, who ruled in the government’s favor.

As a result, she has filed a second judicial review claim in the High Court challenging Dorset Council’s ongoing position that it has no planning jurisdiction over the Bibby Stockholm barge.

A legal challenge to the barge has not been mounted by the local authority, who believes it would be too costly and unlikely to succeed.

To reduce the cost of placing migrants in hotels, the government built the barge.

“We are confident that the project, which will house asylum seekers in safe and secure accommodations, meets the planning requirements.”.