10-point plan to boost economy

Jan 13 2009 By Adrian Pearson, The Journal

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Paul Younger, Pro-Vice Chancellor at Newcastle University

NEWCASTLE University is to spend millions to help North East businesses and families through the economic crisis. Bosses last night unveiled a 10-point plan of measures to boost the economy and help train workers.

Millions of pounds will be diverted from the University’s £350m annual budget for a mixture of building improvements, subsidised courses and free entertainment as staff this month kick start a process which will see them placed at the centre of efforts to tackle the recession.

Plans include bringing forward spending on refurbishing laboratories and lecture theatres and insulating university owned student property.

These alone could contribute several million pounds to local businesses and come as the university pushes ahead with a £200m campus investment programme.

A £5,000 voucher will also be offered to small businesses to allow cash-strapped companies to pay for training during the downturn.

And for staff made redundant during the recession there will be subsidised courses in a bid to ensure there is still a highly-skilled workforce available when the economy begins to grow again.

Last night professor Paul Younger, Pro-Vice Chancellor at the university, said the institution was determined to do what it could to help.

He said: "We are aware that we have a responsibility as a major employer and major economic force to think carefully about how we can contribute and what we can do for the local economy. And that means helping out not just when times are sunny but when there are bad times ahead as well."

As well as the business support the university is also widening its series of free cultural events, which will include free entry to the Great North Museum when it opens in April.

Prof Younger said: "We know people will be looking at their budgets and wondering how they can still have a social life and entertain the kids throughout this. Hopefully this will make some contribution to the options available.

The plan begins with an open access event at the University’s King’s Road Centre from 10.30am to 3.30pm on Friday January 30, where more information on the programme will be available.

Click here to read the Chamber of Commerce 'North East Business Barometer Q4 2008' report, in full.

THE Newcastle University 10-point plan:

1. Make it easier for businesses in the region to win supply contracts with the University.

2. Secure hundreds of construction jobs by maintaining the current £200m programme of investment in its campus.

3. Bring forward other significant capital projects.

4. Accelerate the programming of maintenance and improvement works.

5. Invest in energy efficiency measures in University's housing.

6. Issue vouchers worth £5,000 to businesses, which can be redeemed against University training or specialist advice.

7. Subsidised access to courses to help those made redundant.

8. Reduce average payment times to all suppliers by nine days.

9. Expansion of the University’s successful Newcastle Work Experience scheme.

10. Expand roll-out of free cultural and educational activities for the benefit of families on a tight budget.