University expansion in Bognor WILL go ahead

Government officials announced yesterday they would continue to support the ambitious plans to increase its number of students by 25 per cent.

They have agreed to stand by their original commitment to invest a further 1m in the University of Chichester's campus in spite of severe government funding cutbacks.

The decision by the South East England Development Agency means the university's school of enterprise, management and leadership should be finished in 2012.

Rob Douglas, the agency's chairman, said: "This important new business school will help to shape the future of the area, grow the local economy and provide a greater number of students with the skills they need to compete internationally.

"I am delighted, that in spite of the cuts to our budget, we have agreed with local partners that this scheme will go ahead.

The Observer reported two weeks ago that the need for severe cuts in government spending raised serious doubts about the long-awaited boost to the town's higher education profile.

Seeda had already put 1m towards the business school in recognition of its essential part in the 30m redevelopment programme of the historic campus on Upper Bognor Road that will provide a significant boost to the local economy.

The refurbished campus will offer degree-level education to 1,250 students They will also benefit from a new learning centre and space for eight high value businesses.

Professor Clive Behagg, the acting vice-chancellor of the university, said: "I am delighted by Seeda's decision to confirm the funding.

"This will enable us to undertake the substantial refurbishment of the Dome and provide a school of enterprise, management and leadership."