Pros and cons of living in a university city

An extensive review of the impact of universities and students on the city has been unveiled, with an action plan to tackle “genuine concerns”.

Canterbury City Council’s report – which took more than a year to produce – examines the effects of higher and further education and invites the public to have its say.

Set out in three parts – the economy and the social and physical impacts – it looks at how students shape city life. It explains how universities are crucial to the economy, but that more support is needed for people suffering problems in ‘student-rich’ areas. The 120-page report was drawn up following work with the universities, college, stu- dents’ unions, residents’ associations, community groups, police, landlords and business groups over the last nine months. As a result, 32 recommendations have been made which will be worked on over the coming years by all those involved in the review.

Deputy chief executive of the council Velia Coffey admits it was a “mammoth task”.

She said: “We wanted to make sure we covered all the issues. The fundamental point is that Canterbury is a university city and we must celebrate the vibrancy and economic benefit that students bring, but the evidence does show there are concerns that need to be tackled.”

What do you think? Email kentishgazette@thekmgroup. co.uk or write to Gazette House, 5-8 Boorman Way, Wraik Hill, Whitstable, CT5 3SE.