University Campus Suffolk aims for 2016 'independence'

University Campus Suffolk (UCS) says becoming independent will enable it to provide new courses and put it in "charge" of its own "destiny".

UCS, which opened its main campus on Ipswich Waterfront in 2008, is hoping it will gain independence from the universities of Essex and East Anglia by the end of 2016.

Richard Lister, chief executive of UCS, said: "I think both universities [Essex and UEA] thought in the long run this would bring about a fully independent university in, and for, Suffolk.

"It means you can make your own decisions without reference to other people and, in a really competitive higher education market, it means we can compete with other universities on an even playing field.

"It will give us the opportunity to introduce new courses, market ourselves in particular ways, recruit new staff and real purpose is about driving the Suffolk economy to bring prosperity."

Mr Lister said it has two "hoops" to jump through this year - getting designation for direct funding from government and officially changing its name to the University of Suffolk.