University of Derby reveals expansion plans

The University of Derby has revealed plans to substantially grow its estate.

Speaking at a Marketing Derby Bondholder event, finance director, Hari Punchihewa, outlined plans for a possible new Business School as well as digital and conferencing facilities.

He said: “We want to create a student zone in the city including a new University Enterprise Zone and we are looking for partners to get behind this.”

Vice chancellor Kathryn Mitchell said: “We are a confident University with ambitions for the city and county.

“The University is proud of its achievements to date and recognises that it is time to take ambitious steps in terms of what we do and how we do it, and a real determination to embrace change and deliver an outstanding experience for everyone who wants to engage with the University of Derby.”

John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby opened the event saying that great cities need great universities and Derby is a city on the up and clearly has a University which is also on the up.

“We must remind ourselves that Derby is still a young University – only 26 years old – but has already made its mark as its position in league tables is beginning to show.”

At the event the University launched its 2018-2030 Strategic Framework, its ambitions for the future and its civic role within the East Midlands.

Mitchell said: “The framework provides the foundations and direction on which to plan, perform and succeed in a changing and globally dynamic environment, and sets out a clear purpose and promise to its students, staff and region.”