The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has been proactively seeking proposals for the future of its Lampeter campus. This follows the recent news that 200 years of undergraduate teaching will be shuttered in short order. Since March this year, stakeholders – including Ceredigion council – have been involved in ongoing discussions over the campus’s future. It will place an emphasis on skill development and vocational education as opposed to academic instruction.
Ceredigion council cabinet members were faced with a critical decision on June 3. They were requested to approve the purchase of a property that had been classified as a “strategic asset.” To make this acquisition happen, the Welsh government will cover the purchase cost with a loan. This further underscores the important role that this campus will play in energizing the regional economy. UWTSD subsequently assured them that all humanities courses would be moved to Carmarthen by September 2025. This amendment comes as a radical educational shift within the university itself.
Emlyn Dole, chairman of the UWTSD council, confirmed the university will retain ownership of the Lampeter campus. This latest decision arrives on the heels of finalizing the end of undergraduate programs. The decision to discontinue these courses stems from the university’s assessment that maintaining the campus’s infrastructure was “not viable” with only 92 undergraduate students currently enrolled.
The Lampeter campus has a long, storied legacy, as far back as when it was established as St David’s College in 1822. Famous for its postcard-perfect views, the campus is home to a stately stone mansion with an arched entrance, towering windows and manicured lawns. Public protests have sprung up in Lampeter and at the Senedd. These meetings are a testament to the community’s intense passion and concern for the campus’ future.
Ceredigion council leader, Bryan Davies said that it was the start of an exciting new chapter for Lampeter.
“This represents an exciting opportunity to explore how the university’s Lampeter campus can continue to make a significant contribution to the regional economy and to the wider Lampeter community.” – Bryan Davies and Emlyn Dole
Cabinet member for economy, regeneration, and carbon management Clive Davies introduced a lengthy report outlining the proposed project. He emphasized the need for the asset to be integrated into a broader development strategy.
“The asset would form part of a wider development, for which a full integrated impact assessment will be produced and considered.” – Clive Davies
In their joint statement, Bryan Davies and Emlyn Dole added that planning to advance the project continues. Negotiations remain in progress and stakeholders remain hopeful. They hope the Lampeter campus can continue to repurpose its assets to serve the community in new and more meaningful ways.
