University staff to relocate to council building

More than 500 staff from the University of Wolverhampton will relocate as part of a move expected to reduce estate costs

The University of Wolverhampton has begun relocating some of its staff to a council building, as part of a 10-year lease agreement with the local authority.

More than 500 staff from the university's professional services team will be relocated to newly refurbished office spaces in the Civic Centre.

Staff will be moving from departments such as finance, human resources, recruitment and marketing, as part of a lease agreement with City of Wolverhampton Council.

The university said the move supported its broader goals of reducing estate costs, with the vacated space to be repurposed to improve facilities and "support the student experience".

Dr Pete Cross, chief operating officer at the university, said: "This relocation is more than a change of address - it's a bold step towards transforming how we work together.

"By co-locating our professional services teams in the Civic Centre, we're fostering stronger collaboration, improving operational efficiency, and supporting the wider regeneration of Wolverhampton city centre.

"It's a move that benefits our staff, our students, and the community we serve."

Councillor Chris Burden said the local authority was delighted to welcome the new team and said the move also supported its "efforts in making the best use of our buildings and managing financial challenges".

"It promotes public sector partnering, showcases the opportunities the city centre can bring, and supports the University's growth and development which in turn boosts footfall and benefits the local economy," he said.

"The University's commitment and ambition for our city is vital and we will continue to work closely with them as a key partner."