Thousands of new jobs possible

To get the university ready to open for the 2022/23 academic year there can be no more delays, the full business case makes clear.

This means planning approval for the new campus needs to be agreed by Peterborough City Council in September.

It is anticipated that a contractor will be chosen shortly and that spades will be in the ground before the end of the year. The report says the size of the campus has been increased so ARU can: “meet the needs of their curriculum,” however, this has delayed the process.

It adds: “The programme does not allow for any further delay,” which includes any issues related to Covid-19.

This is highlighted again later on, with any delays: “remaining a risk to the overall scheme”.

The campus is due to be operational in September 2022 but will not be at capacity until 2025: “ensuring space will available should social distancing be needed.

The timeline is for education provision to begin in the 2022/23 academic year. ARU will then register with the Office for Students by the beginning of 2025/26 and, all being well, will be granted unlimited taught degree-awarding powers by the beginning of 2028/29. Finally, it is envisaged that the new university title will be introduced in 2032 once it becomes independent.

The university is expected to create thousands of jobs, beginning with 50 temporary roles in construction.

The number of indirect jobs created is expected to hit 14,400, with around 200 people employed at the university itself.

The number of apprenticeships is expected to hit the 5,000 mark.