Ms Caoimhe Hope:

It fits into it in multiple different facets. As part of the overall policy, our objective is to activate the supply of new student accommodation. Through that, we will be looking at modern methods of construction, and also we are just about to commence a study on standardised design for student accommodation. Currently, there are no design standards for student accommodation. We are conducting that study to drive sustainable developments as well as a more integrated approach to campus life. It has a completion date of quarter four of this year. We are just about to appoint a contractor to do that work with us and the HEA.

In tandem with that, to supplement the policy to activate supply, we recognise that 44% of our higher education students commute to college from home and will continue to do so for various reasons. In order for them to do that, we also have to look at sustainable transport links. How do they actually get to college? For those students who live nearer to college, how do they safely get in and out of college? The students have previously raised the issues of safe passage routes and safe transport to and from college with us.