tower block

The government has indicated that other disused sites such as empty tower blocks, student accommodation and industrial sites could also be used to house asylum seekers.

The residential and commercial tower blocks in Gaza City represented an important chapter in the city's history, tied to hopes of ending the Israeli occupation and building an independent Palestinian state.

The old city slums were cleared, but many people were moved to damp, isolated tower blocks with limited amenities.

At night tens of thousands of local spectators have been cramming into the riverside area to see a lightshow displayed on tower blocks while the gathering is taking place.

In June, ministers said the government was looking at buying tower blocks and former student accommodation, external to house migrants.