UEA blows two million pounds investing in new energy plant

Lavish UEA officials have been criticised by frustrated students for funnelling £2m of uni cash into a new energy plant for Norwich.

The reveal of the plant’s plan has sparked outrage among students who cannot understand why the university isn’t spending the money on issues a little closer to home.

Pro-vice Chancellor of Research, Dr Trevor Davies, backs the investment. He said: “The university has long been involved in an energy engineering programme, and this is an opportunity to grow that programme. We are constantly seeking ways to reduce our carbon footprint.

“This is a hugely exciting project which we hope shall greatly benefit the university as well as the city.”

The complex will also include a research centre for UEA, as well as an education centre for the public.

There are also plans to build student accommodation on the site, though it will be owned by a private company as opposed to UEA. Students from Norwich University of the Arts and City College Norwich will be able to rent there alongside anyone from UEA.

The huge investment has been condemned by students, who question the lack of investment in uni facilities.

Emma, a Psychology third year, told The Tab she can’t understand why the university is putting so much money into the plant when the union’s budget was so tight this time last year.

She said: “Cuts in 2014 shredded student services from the Union.

“The entertainment side of the Union, like the LCR and gigs, received such a blow. Union workers’ pay even dipped below minimum wage for a while, and yet the uni is willing to fork out however much of the students’ fees for this power plant.

“Surely the money would be better off going back in the students’ direction.”

UEA’s school of music was closed in 2012 due to cuts

Matt, a third year Business student, also can’t understand why the uni is investing so much money in the plant.

He said: “UEA’s facilities are generally great, but the cracks begin to show around exam season.

“Computer space in the library is ridiculous. It’s just not enough. And seeming that the uni is using the students’ money to pay for this plant it seems unfair that our needs aren’t being put first.”

Lauren, a Drama first year, can sympathise with the university. She said:
“I understand the power plant may benefit the uni in other ways, but surely the students should be its main priority following the student satisfaction ratings?”

Despite this, Dr Davies still believes the investment will benefit students: “We believe the long-term benefits of the project are limitless, both in research and in the university’s stature.

“We believe this venture will help to raise the profile of UEA.”

After planning permission is fully confirmed and approved, the complex and energy plant are scheduled to open in 2018.