Christina McKelvie MSP, Angela Crawley MP and Margaret Ferrier MP, have jointly welcomed news from the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) that Hamilton is to remain a university town. The current campus can no longer meet demand.

Said Christina: “I am pleased to hear that UWS has announced plans to move into Hamilton International Technology Park (HITP). There will of course still be issues to iron out so as to create a ‘state of the art campus’ on the site and we will be asking for clarification on some aspects of the planning. I am particularly concerned to ensure that good investment is planned for the use of the Almada Street site.

“All three of us are pleased to know that our University campus will not end up trapped between the M8 and Eurocentral but will instead continue to be the life and blood of our town, able to offer students a far better learning experience.”

Angela Crawley MP added: “Our students are an essential part of life in and around Hamilton and I am delighted that they will remain close to the town, contributing to the local economy and enjoying the facilities nearby.”

Margaret Ferrier MP said: “We welcome the investment in the Technology Park but we will be seeking meetings with all partners to discuss the legacy of the current site. It is important that there is a well planned investment at Alamada Street so as to mitigate the impact of moving the campus out of the town centre.”

Christina continued: “We are pleased to see Hamilton will continue as a university town. We hope the new and exciting campus plans will add an economic and educational boost to the whole area.”

The UWS Court has been considering three options to replace the current site: The Maxim Park site between the M8 and Eurocentral; redevelopment of the current Alamada Street site and the selected choice of the Hamilton International Technology Park (HITP).

Ian Welsh OBE, Chair of UWS Court, said: “Following a lengthy discussion, the Court felt the opportunity to develop what would be the UK’s most environmentally friendly, dynamic and vibrant new campus was one that could not be missed.

“We held detailed discussions with the developers and other stakeholders, who presented a very compelling and convincing business and educational case for HITP, including an exciting and innovative legacy plan for the current campus location which will add even more value to the town centre.”