The Union acknowledges that University of Derby Halls of Residence Cathedral Court is currently closed and will remain closed for the rest of the academic year.
The Union acknowledges that University of Derby Halls of Residence Cathedral Court is currently closed and will remain closed for the rest of the academic year. It is our priority to ensure that all students are represented and reassured, and we have been working closely with the University to ensure that students are signposted and supported throughout the transition.
Students have been offered alternative accommodation at Princess Alice Court or at other accommodation sourced by the University, or they can choose to be released from their contracts – with fees refunded accordingly. Students will be offered support to help move – whatever their choice is.
College leaders are aware of the situation and know which particular students have been affected; all students will be offered additional academic support, if required, due to the disruption.
Students are encouraged to contact their programme leader if they are concerned about upcoming exams, deadlines or the start of next semester.
A University of Derby spokesperson said:
“To ensure the safety of all our people, we carry out regular surveys on our buildings and act promptly on any changes we need to make. Based on a report received just prior to the Christmas break we made the decision to relocate students from Cathedral Court to another hall of residence.
“Further assessments undertaken over the past two weeks have confirmed that the required maintenance works will be noisy and intrusive, and not conducive to an enjoyable environment in which to live, study and socialise. Therefore, we have taken the difficult decision, in our students’ best interests, to close Cathedral Court for the rest of this academic year.
“Our priority now is to ensure our students are supported to give them certainty in their living arrangements between now and the end of the academic year.”
Your VP for Activities, Beth Baxtrem, added:
“Our independent Advice team is already supporting a number of students with queries around accommodation, and we encourage anyone with concerns to get in touch with our Union Advice service or by calling 01332 591507.”
Cathedral Court residents are advised to complete the form sent via email by logging into your accommodation account. Click the Cathedral Court button then indicate your preference and any specific requirements by Wednesday 12th January 2022.
You are also able to contact the Housing Centre on 01332 594111 or email studentliving-housingteam@derby.ac.uk with any further enquiries.