A NORTH-EAST university has confirmed plans to transfer some medical students from one of its satellite campuses back to its central site.

Durham University carried out a review of its Queen's Campus in Stockton and in March it was reported that a working group had recommended that some academic activities could be transferred in time for the new term in September 2017.

Today (May 10), it was announced that the university's Council has accepted the proposal and also approved a scheme to seek to repurpose the Campus, in part, as an International Foundation College.

Professor Stuart Corbridge, Vice-Chancellor and Warden of Durham University, said: “We remain committed to both Stockton and Durham and are excited by these developments, following extensive consultation and discussion internally and more widely.

“These plans are in the early stages and we look forward to continuing to engage with staff, students, local communities and other stakeholders as they progress.

“Our continued presence in both Stockton and Durham will be accompanied by sustained investment in the region.”

Queen’s Campus is home to about 2,000 full-time students, the School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, the John Snow and Stephenson residential colleges and the Wolfson Research Institute.

A consultation period began last year with a working group set up, chaired by Anthony Long while students and staff were invited to participate in meetings and surveys about the campus.

When the review was reported, concerns were raised that the university's scheme could have a negative impact on Stockton, but the Borough Council has now shown its support for the plans.

Councillor Bob Cook, leader of Stockton Borough Council, said: “We’re really pleased to receive confirmation of the university’s intention to develop an International Foundation College at the Queen’s Campus site and we look forward to seeing these plans progress.

“The university has put significant investment into creating superb facilities here and its commitment to maintaining a strong international presence in Stockton is clear recognition of their quality.

“It has been particularly heartening to read the Vice-Chancellor’s comments that Queen’s Campus and the wider Stockton surroundings are held in great affection by many and that strong partnerships have been formed here.”