A UNIVERSITY has scrapped plans to start lectures at 8am.

Students and staff at Durham University had expressed concerns about the plans to start business and law classes at 8am from October, with particular worries about students with caring responsibilities and those with disabilities.

Teaching space at the university is under pressure because of increasing student numbers.

A teaching centre, which is being built in South Road, is aimed at alleviating the pressure but will not be ready until 2019.

Pro-vice chancellor Professor Alan Houston said: “Durham’s preliminary timetable for 2018-19 included four modules in business and law whose lectures were to be taught at 8am.

“Both students and staff expressed concern at this possibility. We have listened and responded. Working closely with students and departments, the Student Registry explored all alternatives. Thanks to their hard work, I am pleased to report that there will be no 8am lectures scheduled next academic year.

“The new Teaching and Learning Centre is scheduled to open in September 2019. In addition to 400 new study spaces, it will provide additional lecture space and help relieve pressure on the timetable.”