Refugees will still be put up on a farm complex on the outskirts of the Brabant village of Someren despite this week’s arson attack on the main property, mayor Dilia Blok has said.

The part of the complex which was not damaged it still big enough to put up 450 refugees, starting with 225 who will arrive on Monday, Blok told reporters on Thursday.

Police are currently investigating the suspected arson and have appealed for both eye witnesses and camera footage.

Blok said town hall officials had spoken to a group of villagers who vehemently oppose the arrival of large group of asylum seekers but that they too have distanced themselves from violence and arson.

Nevertheless, she said extra measures would be in place to ensure the safety of the refugees and staff when they arrive.

The group moving to Someren have been living in a variety of sports halls in Brabant since July.