University plan for Docklands

A pounds 60m scheme for a new university in the heart of the Royal Docks, east London, was unveiled yesterday. It would accommodate 5,000 students and is intended to compete against traditional universities for the brightest students.

Central to the project would be a flagship technology institute. The first undergraduates will be offered courses in environment technology - ways in which industry can introduce more green manufacturing processes, business, management media, culture, health and sport.

The University of East London, London Guildhall University, (both former polytechnics), London University's Queen Mary and Westfield College and City University have joined with the London Docklands Development Corporation, Newham Council, and the London East Training and Enterprise

Council to turn the blueprint into reality.

The LDDC has pledged pounds 4.1m for the scheme over three years and tomorrow the consortium is to bid for pounds 10m funding from the Government's Single Regeneration Budget. This coincides with the publication of a report outlining the Government's strategy to revitalise the East Thames corridor, as reported in Independent London yesterday.

The LDDC said: ''Tomorrow's bid will be the consortium's first major funding request and the most critical.

'This first-stage investment would be earmarked for the proposed technology institute, designed to operate with a strong European and international focus.

'It will serve as a magnet for an adjacent proposed science and technology park as well as a powerful implement for economic and social regeneration.'

Bob Pringle, executive director of community infrastructure at the LDDC, said: 'The institute will specialise in industry-related applied science and technology, attracting hi-tech industries.

'This, in time, will change the economic profile of this part of Docklands and help to boost the regeneration of the East Thames corridor.'

Backers say the 25-acre campus, including student residences and community and leisure facilities, will be able to capitalise on its transport links.