In principle decision taken to dispose of Archway Campus

Approval has been given in principle to seek to sell the Archway Campus.

The campus, jointly owned by the University of Middlesex and UCL, currently accommodates a number of UCL Medical School initiatives in education, informatics, clinical research and health services research.

The buildings that make up the campus were not designed for university use.  Parts of the grounds and buildings are in a poor state of repair and a substantial level of investment is required to update the campus to an acceptable standard.  The level of investment that would be required to update the campus to an acceptable standard is prohibitive.

Both Middlesex University and UCL consider that the needs of the academic community and interests of students are best met by relocating to more appropriate alternative accommodation. This would enhance the student experience and ensure that research and other similar activities are co-located with key collaborators. UCL and Middlesex University would hope to be in a position to sell the site after Summer 2013.

The relocation of our respective activities will cause considerable disruption to colleagues who occupy the campus and we will do our utmost to minimise disruption to their day-to-day operations.

At this stage both parties have secured in principle approval - with the support of our academic leadership - to work up a detailed appraisal for the disposal. Much work needs to be undertaken to develop a full feasibility study and a joint exit strategy. This will be undertaken in full consultation with academic and support staff on the campus.

Sian Minett,  Head of Satellite Estates, UCL Estates