Earlier this year the University consulted on potential changes in the halls of residences designed to increase the number of student rooms available. Following a number of queries about the status of this consultation, the University would like to clarify that this consultation has now ended and the University has decided not to implement the changes which were originally included in the consultation.

The University does intend to review and re-examine the full range of options available and is grateful to everyone who provided feedback to the previous consultation as this has helped to inform future plans. The University intends to begin consultation again in early 2012, and it has confirmed the “status quo” for at least the current academic year (2011/12).

The University has also reviewed the way in which it undertakes such consultations. We do recognise the understandable concerns of those affected by this consultation and will use the lessons learned from this exercise to ensure that the second consultation is managed as effectively as possible and involves a wider range of both direct and indirect stakeholders.  

A clear timetable for the new consultation, as well as details of its scope will be made public by the end of December.