Shropshire university plan to be raised with minister
Plans to create a university in Shropshire are to be outlined to the Education Secretary Michael Gove.
Daniel Kawczynski, MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham, says he will be alerting Mr Gove to the proposal.
He hopes to spark a parliamentary debate over the issue, in an attempt to move plans forward.
A review to assess the potential of a new higher education facility in the county, ordered by Shropshire Council earlier in the year, is still ongoing. While sites across the county are being considered, it is believed Shrewsbury would be the first choice for the new university.
Mr Kawczynski said: "I will be writing to the Secretary of State for Education and to Shropshire Council to ascertain where we are in the process of getting a university for Shrewsbury.
"It's high time Shrewsbury had a university. It's very important for young people to stay in Shrewsbury to study and I will be trying to seek a parliamentary debate about the importance of a university in Shrewsbury."
"A university would of course be a very important investment for local businesses," he added.
Shropshire Council has drafted in experts from the University of Chester to draw up a feasibility report. And officials said their initial research has indicated the new university for Shropshire could "enhance the region's economic prospects and prevent a brain drain of skills and expertise".
While the Harper Adams University is already operating in Telford & Wrekin, and several universities have campuses in Shropshire, the potential new development would be the first stand- alone university for the county.
Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council's cabinet member for business growth, said: "The review is looking at the most appropriate type of facility to meet future needs and further discussion will take place with all key stakeholders, to fully explore the possibilities."
Alex Williams, a spokesman for the University of Chester, said: "Early indications are that a high proportion of sixth formers opt not only to leave Shropshire, but also surrounding counties to pursue higher levels of study.
"The next stage of the feasibility study will consider more fully possible sites across the county and which, if any, could provide a location for a high quality higher education facility.
"Having a university would give unprecedented opportunities for young people and be a significant investment for the future in Shropshire."
The report is to be presented to Shropshire Council bosses in the next few months.
