UWS was considering moving its facility in Hamilton to the Maxim Park site near Eurocentral on the M8, however its ruling body said a proposal for a new campus at Hamilton International Technology Park is now its preferred option.

A full business case is to be brought forward for the HITP development following extensive consultation with the local authority, stakeholders, students and staff.

Ian Welsh OBE, chair of UWS Court, said: “Following a lengthy discussion, the Court felt the opportunity to develop what would be the UK’s most environmentally friendly, dynamic and vibrant new campus was one that could not be missed.

“We held detailed discussions with the developers and other stakeholders, who presented a very compelling and convincing business and educational case for HITP, including an exciting and innovative legacy plan for the current campus location which will add even more value to the town centre.

“In assessing these options, we consulted widely with the community, engaging with students, colleagues and external stakeholders to best advise our position. However the final decision is one for the University and it is a decision that has been made independently by Court firmly in the context of delivery of our ambitious Corporate Strategy.

“We followed an extremely rigorous and robust process when scrutinising the available options and have complete confidence we have arrived at the best possible option.

“We will now work together in partnership with the Council and the developer to bring forward a full business case, which will be presented to the University Court next year.”

The option presents a transformational opportunity for UWS and will significantly enhance the learning and social experience of its students, delivering state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities for students and lecturers, as well as fantastic sports amenities and new student accommodation.

Part of the development will also see the west side of HITP become the UWS Technology and Innovation Park, providing a significant boost to UWS’s research and commercial activities.

Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, Professor Craig Mahoney said: “This will be a game-changer for higher education in Scotland and will create the country’s most, dynamic and exciting learning environment, allowing us to grow the educational opportunities for students internationally, across the UK, Lanarkshire and the wider central belt.

“As well as securing the long-term future of UWS in Hamilton, we’re able now to develop a truly inspirational and world-class University campus fit for existing and future students.

“We are strategically committed to providing sustainable, contemporary and inspirational learning environments and innovative pedagogies to support a person-centred approach to learning to prepare graduates for future success – that is the opportunity presented by this site.

“The strong strategic location, proximity to employers and legacy plan for the existing site means this is a huge opportunity not just for UWS and Hamilton, but for the whole of Lanarkshire and beyond.”