PLANS to create a new state-of-the-art campus in Lanarkshire have taken a step forward with the formal contract signing now completed.

The University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) has agreed a partnership with South Lanarkshire Council to deliver the 38-acre ultra-modern campus at Hamilton International Technology Park (HITP), just two miles from the existing site.

Construction work is due to begin in November this year with the first UWS students expected to move in by 2018.

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The council and UWS have agreed that once the campus has been relocated, the current Almada Street campus will be the focus of a large-scale regeneration project giving an opportunity to stimulate economic growth in the area.

Professor Craig Mahoney, of UWS, said: “Our new campus marks a significant stage in the development of UWS and will be a major boost for Lanarkshire bringing exciting social and economic benefits, as well as creating the go-to study destination for students from across Scotland and further afield.

“We have plans to deliver some of the most innovative learning spaces in the UK and look forward to working with our partners to make this highly ambitious development a reality.”

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“We look forward to commencing the work on site and realising the dream of establishing a stunning 21st century learning environment for our students, staff and stakeholders in Lanarkshire.”