Details have been released of the first tranche of maintenance and renewal projects being brought forward as a direct result of savings made from the recent reduction in the VAT rate.
The University’s Executive Board authorised these works less than three weeks after announcing a package of measures to help the region’s business deal with the economic downturn.
The University will be giving local businesses an opportunity to tender for 10 projects, including the refurbishment of its sports facilities at Heaton and Longbenton; improving exterior lighting and replacing windows in student accommodation at Richardson Road; and upgrading its information systems and services.
Professor Paul Younger, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Engagement, said: “More so than ever in these financially difficult times, we believe the University has a vital role to play in our region’s economy.
“Earlier this month, we announced a ten-step plan to help local companies deal with the credit crunch, and committed the University to making a concerted effort to bring forward elements of our long-term programme of maintenance and refurbishment works and improved energy-efficiency. The savings we have made on VAT have enabled us to act immediately upon that commitment, and it is my hope that we will be able to place the vast majority of this work locally in the next month or two”, he said.
In addition to bringing forward maintenance projects, the University’s ten-step plan also includes the introduction of a Business Voucher Scheme for small and medium-sized companies in the region, offering vouchers of up to £5,000 redeemable against training or specialist advice from the University; arranging subsidised access to courses to help re-skill people who have been made redundant; expanding the University Careers Service’s successful work experience scheme; and expanding provision of free cultural and educational activities.
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Originally published 30th Jan 2009
published on: 30th January 2009