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‘University town’ plan
Monday 3rd March 2008, 11:08AM GMT.
Telford could become a university town under plans by the Government to expand the number of higher education colleges and “unlock the talent” of local people
The idea was welcomed by MPs for the borough.
Universities secretary John Denham announced today that up to 20 new universities could be created over the next six years.
Telford is not on the top 20 list, but it is understood that talks are going on to include the Shropshire new town in a later list of areas in line for extra higher education provision.
The town is already expanding its close links with Wolverhampton University, and any designation of Telford as a separate institution would be likely to be in federation with its near-neighbour.
Labour MP for Telford David Wright said: “We have got multi-million pound new facilities on the Wolverhampton campus at Priorslee, so we have a growing campus at Telford, and I hope we can expand it further over the next few years.”
Wrekin Tory MP Mark Pritchard said: “If this is true, it will be good news for Shropshire.”
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So what happens to the “University” that is already there?
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“unlock the talent” is there another Telford that we don’t know about?
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A university would be a big boost I think and could help bring some vibrancy to the town.
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I think this is amazing news. Staffordshire and Wolverhampton Universities already have a big presence in Telford and Shropshire more generally. With the attractions of Telford, Shrewsbury and Shropshire generally coupled with the existing provisions – why not create The University of the West Midlands? With colleges in Telford, Shrewsbury, Stoke, Stafford and Wolverhampton with each centre specialising in a specific area of academia. This is what Telford needs, to raise aspirations, create jobs, employment opportunities!
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By the way – I urge David Wright and Mark Pritchard to put aside political differences on this issue – and with other Midland MP campaign for this – so to ensure Telford does not lose out!
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