The University of Ulster is to convene a Community Relations Forum to address town/gown relation issues in the Magee campus area.

The Forum, which holds its first meeting next Monday (29^th November) will bring together local residents, statutory and voluntary agencies and local political representatives and business interests.

The move is a consequence of the growth of the campus both in terms of physical size and in student numbers, and is evidence of the University’s continuing commitment to the local community and the city as a whole.

Professor Tom Fraser, Provost of the Magee campus, said:

“We are conscious of our social responsibility to be a good neighbour in the community, and are determined to work closely in partnership with local statutory and community organisations to ensure good relations, and early intervention to address any issues of concern which may arise due to the growth of the University.”

The University is aware of concerns among local residents and has moved to put in place several measures aimed at nipping problems in the bud. Among the initiatives already in place are:
 

·    Induction briefings held with all residential students by the Warden and Head of Residential Services

·    Increased University security presence at Duncreggan Student Village

·    Increase in numbers of Resident Assistants appointed

·    Meeting with local councillors, police, resident associations and students union

·    Warning letter to all students from Head of Residential Services regarding behaviour

The University is also moving to put in place:

·    A hotline number for concerned residents to contact the University

·    Introduction of Student Union late-night mini-bus shuttle from Magee to Duncreggan Student Village

·    regular meetings with local entertainment providers to establish responsible behaviour guidelines

·    deployment of community wardens

It is hoped that the bodies such as the Housing Executive, City Council, PSNI, resident’s associations, landlord’s organisations, and the planning authorities will take part in the proposed Forum.

Anne Monaghan, the University of Ulster’s Community Relations Manager, said: 'The University of Ulster will use the best practice we have developed in South Belfast in relation to working with local communities at the Magee campus.

“The staff in Accommodation Services and the Students' Union at Magee are extremely proactive and will work with the local community and other agencies to manage student behaviour and town/gown issues at Magee.'

Gareth Kennedy, the University’s Head of Residential Services, said: "The University is committed to addressing these issues in partnership with students and the local community.  The University has been liaising with the local residents association, local politicians and individual residents to noise nuisance and are committed to actively working with the relevant agencies to address student behaviour issues.”

For further information, please contact:

David Young
Telephone: 028 90366074
Email: David Young