University Centre Shrewsbury holds community event
Representatives from a range of organisations joined together at a community event this week to share information, views and ideas on the development of University Centre Shrewsbury.
Councillors, members of residents’ associations, Shrewsbury Civic Society, the Safer Shrewsbury Partnership, Shrewsbury Street Pastors, police and fire officers, University of Chester and Shropshire Council staff were among those who met at Rowley’s House yesterday.
Topics discussed included curriculum, sites, pastoral care for students, student volunteering and disciplinary procedures. Representatives also talked about the best ways to continue to exchange thoughts on the University Centre, and progress the actions arising from these discussions.
The event was part of ongoing activities organised to involve the community including one-to-one meetings, sharing of information at meetings of local organisations, events to hear first-hand from people with extensive experience of community liaison work, and a recent meeting for community representatives to discuss accommodation plans.
Looking ahead, it was agreed to ensure that each Team Shrewsbury meeting includes an opportunity for discussion on University Centre Shrewsbury. Team Shrewsbury is a group of representatives drawn from different agencies who work together to promote the town and look at where improvements can be made.
It was also agreed to bring the representatives who attended yesterday's event together again in about six months, to review these arrangements and discuss whether to continue in this way or set up a standalone Community Liaison Committee.
Paul Kirkbright, Deputy Provost, University Centre Shrewsbury, said: “Because we are creating a new University, we have the opportunity to look at, discuss and develop initiatives from the start to ensure it develops in the best way for students, residents, businesses and others.
“Yesterday, as throughout all the community activities, there was great interest, enthusiasm and input shared on how we continue to work with and contribute to the community, and make good progress for the institution and the town.”
Councillor Alan Mosley, who chaired the meeting, said: “This highly successful meeting was well attended by people from a wide variety of organisations, with everyone very positive about the educational, economic and social benefits of having a University in our town.
“Areas of concern relating to accommodation and the pace of development were fully addressed. All were delighted that there will be ongoing liaison through Team Shrewsbury to share news, information and advice while ensuring that any issues arising will be speedily addressed.”
Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council added: "Following the success of previous events, this was another excellent opportunity for local people and organisations to find out the latest about the development of the University.
“Developing good relationships between the community and the University Centre is really important and something we want to get right, so it was extremely helpful to meet with residents, local groups, and great to hear their continued enthusiasm and support for the project.”
People are also invited to stop by at Rowley’s House, Barker Street, to find out more about University Centre Shrewsbury. The reception is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm each day, except for Wednesdays when it is open from 1pm to 4pm.
