University of Wolverhampton opens Stafford base
THE University of Wolverhampton’s new centre in Stafford has opened its doors to the public in the town’s historic Shire Hall.
The Gateway, based in the Grand Hall at the front of the building, is a new advice and information centre for people who want to find out more about the university and its courses. There is also help available with the application process and information about finances.
The university secured the use of part of the historic Shire Hall in the town’s Market Square following an agreement with Staffordshire County Council. It is expected to prove beneficial in the coming weeks as new students prepare to begin their studies.
It is also a boost to the town’s education facilities following the decision to close Staffordshire University’s Beaconside campus.
Professor Ann Holmes, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, said: “We are delighted to have opened The Gateway in Stafford in such a wonderful historic building. Shire Hall is in a great location in the heart of the town and we’re really looking forward to welcoming prospective students and their families through the doors.”
Cllr Ian Parry, Staffordshire County Council’s Deputy Leader, said: “Shire Hall is a hugely significant building for the people of Stafford and it is fantastic to see the University open its doors here.
“It is great news for Stafford, for students and for the local economy and we look forward to seeing the partnership between the county council and the university flourish over the coming years.”
The university intends to retain the art gallery space, which it aims to use for student and community exhibition space as well as the historic court rooms – which will remain accessible to the public.
It will also seek to run a range of courses from the centre in a range of disciplines in the near future.
Shire Hall will remain in Staffordshire County Council ownership and the council will continue with its regular exhibition programme in the shared Great Hall in addition to operating the craft shop, coffee bar, multi-sensory room and Stafford library.
