Nicola Sturgeon backs UWS Hamilton campus
Last week at First Minister’s questions, the new Hamilton campus of the University of the West of Scotland received the backing of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
In a supplementary question during First Minister’s Questions, Local MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina McKelvie, informed the Scottish Parliament of the economic and social benefits the new campus will bring to Hamilton. The First Minister also provided clarity over the funding for the campus.
Despite claims that the project was under threat due to a Scottish Funding Council underspend, the First Minister provided assurances that “There is no impact on our commitments to colleges and universities”.
Commenting during the exchange, Christina McKelvie MSP said:
“The First Minister has just been made aware of Labour’s shameful attempts to link the UWS Lanarkshire campus, which is currently in Hamilton, to the issue.
“Does the First Minister agree that the solution that UWS has arrived at—to build a brand new state-of-the-art eco-campus at Hamilton technology park—will accommodate more students and potentially more teaching staff and has the potential to bring substantial economic and social benefits to Hamilton?
The First Minster provided Scottish Government backing for the project, stating:
“I am pleased that UWS will be developing the new campus, because it brings the potential benefits that Christina McKelvie highlighted, particularly for young people in her constituency.
“As I have said before, the funding council has been fully involved to date and I expect that support to continue as the project develops to ensure that it is realised.”
Commenting after the debate, Christina added:
“The fact is that the SFC has throughout the process provided advice and support to UWS so that the right decision was reached. It’s unequivocal – there is no impact on any outstanding commitments, including the UWS Hamilton campus.
“The new campus, residing in the Hamilton International Technology Park (HITP), is set to generate up to £443 million to the local economy over the next 25 years.
“It’s a shame Labour can’t recognise and welcome that fact, instead of spreading misinformation and misguided fear.