The Housing Department, responsible for the Hostels on behalf of the Government of Gibraltar, says it is pleased to announce that Phase 1 of the Sunrise Hostel new extension is now ready to accommodate and transfer those living in the Queen’s Hotel. The keys will be handed over to the Housing Department on Thursday 14th May.

Residents at the Queen's Hotel have known for some time now that this move was coming and the Department will be assisting those who need help and providing transport. The idea is to move the residents in different groups on different days. Residents will be consulted on what is the best time for them to move so it avoids disruption in their personal lives. JT Security, who run the Hostels for the Housing Department, will be assisting with the operation.

A statement continued: "This move has taken longer than expected but the end product is a vast improvement to the living conditions in the Queen’s Hotel. Phase 2 of the project will see another new extension to accommodate more rooms and Phase 3 will see the current and original Sunrise Hostel have a complete facelift both inside the rooms and the outside area. We hope the transition will go smoothly and that no political gains or individuals with other agendas use the tenants as pawns for their personal gain.

"The people living in the Queen’s Hotel deserve this new and dignified accommodation."