University presses on with closure plans as MPs warn of dangers

THEY HAVE SAID THE PROPOSAL WILL HAVE 'PROFOUND IMPACT' ON THE CITY BUT UNIVERSITY SAYS IT NEEDS TO FOCUS ON AREAS OF STRENGTH AND TO BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN FINANCES

- By OLIVER PRIDMORE

THE University of Nottingham is pressing ahead with plans to shut down several courses despite MPs warning the move could have a “profound impact” on the city.

The cash-strapped institution said in April that more than 250 nonacademic roles could be cut and broader plans that could affect more than 40 courses, ranging from music to nursing, were then confirmed in November.

The university said it was suspending a range of courses by not taking on any new students, with undergraduate and postgraduate students able to complete studies and foundation students being required to select a different course.

A crunch meeting took place yesterday between the university's council and unions, where the plans to move these suspensions onto permanent course closures from the academic year starting in September 2026 were discussed.