PLANS for the next stage of a new university campus development have been given the green light.
The proposals will see the University of Brighton consolidate its provision at three campuses in the city.
The redevelopment will see the creation of modern, accessible and sustainable for the university’s 18,000 students and 2,400 staff.
The university’s seven academic schools will be co-located on the campuses within Brighton – at Falmer, Moulsecoomb and in the city – with investment focused on providing facilities to support each school’s distinctive academic vision.
New student hubs will provide lively and vibrant facilities for all to socialise, access services and feel part of the campus community.
The decision by the university’s board of governors to approve the proposals follows a ten-week public consultation, which took place between October and December 2021.
The institute engaged with staff, students and stakeholders to develop an understanding of the impacts of the proposal, with more than 700 responses.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton Professor Debra Humphris said this is a “momentous decision” for all.
“We can now move forward with a bold and ambitious vision for the future of our university, built around a shared desire to provide the very best experience for our students and staff,” she said.
“This next stage of investment will enable us to continue to develop our estate as vibrant and inspiring student-focused campuses.
“They will help our academic schools to thrive, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow and delivering world-class research to help solve some of the most critical global challenges we face.”
The proposals build on the redevelopment and expansion of the university Moulsecoomb campus, which has seen the creation of new halls of residence, sport, leisure and Students’ Union facilities and a new home for the School of Business and Law.
As part of the plans, further investment will take place over the next two years at the university’s Moulsecoomb and Falmer campuses.
At Falmer, the repurposing of the site previously occupied by Virgin Active will enable the school of sport and health sciences – currently split across Falmer and Eastbourne campuses – to join together on an expanded Falmer campus.
The university’s Eastbourne campus, including the Leaf Hospital, will close by the start of the 2024-25 academic year.
During the consultation period, partners and stakeholders were reassured that the university remains firmly committed to its role supporting education, outreach, health and social care, and innovation, skills and business growth across East Sussex and beyond.
This includes the continuation of close working relationships with partner organisations such as Business East Sussex, Chambers of Commerce, the NHS and local authorities.
Professor Humphris continued: “Our Eastbourne campus is an important part of the university’s history and heritage.
“While we may not continue to have a physical presence in Eastbourne in the future, the University of Brighton remains firmly committed to its role supporting people and businesses across East Sussex and beyond.
“We have a strong track record of working in partnership in our region and that will only grow stronger as we move forward with our plans.”
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