The Royal Borough has committed to housing 10 Syrian refugee families over the next five years.
Several million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict in Syria and the government has pledged support to rehouse 20,000 of the most vulnerable in the UK.
Following discussions with Maidenhead’s MP Theresa May, the Home Secretary, the council will now look to house 10 families including two in the coming months. Following the arrival of the first families the scheme will be reviewed.
Cllr David Burbage, council leader, said: “The war in Syria has displaced hundreds of thousands of ordinary people from all walks of life, who have become homeless refugees due to the conflict in their country. Our concern is to assist those genuine refugees from war, not economic migrants.
“We have pledged to help families come to the Royal Borough over the coming months and years - we can offer a place of safety.”
Cllr David Coppinger, cabinet member for adult services and health, said: “We understand this is a highly emotive issue and many residents have strong views for and against providing support to Syrian refugees.
“We have a strong legacy in the borough of helping those affected by conflict following in the footsteps of Sir Nicholas Winton. It is only right we support the government in its pledge to house thousands of vulnerable refugees.
“We also, however, remain committed to ensuring that none of our residents are disadvantaged by our decision to help the refugees from Syria.”