Bangor University has made a dramatic u-turn on its plans to make 150 staff redundant. The university originally announced a plan to layoff up to 200 employees back in February. Recent executive developments have cut that number down to 78. The university now faces heightened demands from faculty, students, and local leaders. These three are just a few of the many people worried about the effects of these drastic budget cuts.
Dozens of jobs at Bangor University are still in jeopardy as the university continues to rethink its strategy. The university agreed to re-examine the 19 proposed job cuts, particularly focusing on roles within its archives. The plan to cut three staff in this key area remains “under consideration.”
The archives at Bangor University, sir, represent national treasure. As living monuments to the past, they become important settings and spaces where Welsh people can explore their history, identity, and culture. Given this critical value, it’s never been more important to provide ongoing public access to these uniquely historic materials.
Bangor University is currently considering proposals to cut hundreds of jobs. In-year support from the Welsh government will be built into their overall approach, they say. This funding is needed to stop the tide of compulsory redundancies and protect key roles across the institution.
Local Assembly Member Siân Gwenllian directly took her concerns over the redundancies to the university’s vice-chancellor. She raised these issues with the attention of other more senior representatives too. She shared how members of both staff and students had come to her with clear concerns with the proposals.
“Members of staff and students have approached me with concerns about different aspects of the proposals, and I was able to convey them directly to the vice-chancellor and senior representatives.” – Siân Gwenllian
Liz Saville Roberts, the leading parliamentary champion for the archives, made clear just how highly she valued them. She said that access to these resources was critical to understanding Welsh culture. She praised the university’s decision to put the brakes on its plans and to reassess.
“Ensuring continued public access to this vital historical resource is essential for our understanding of Welsh history, identity, and culture. I welcome the university’s decision to pause and reconsider.” – Liz Saville Roberts
The Local Democracy Reporting Service has been following the developments closely, reporting on the concerns raised by various stakeholders at Bangor University. Bangor University boasts hundreds of ornately carved windows on their ancient edifice, bathed in exquisitely cut pale stone. As an educational center, this remarkable landmark helps preserve the rich history of Welsh culture.
