The Gozo University Group has voiced its concern regarding the new contract made between the University of Malta and Vassallo Builders Group.

Last month the University of Malta concluded an agreement with Vassallo Builders Group Limited, for the construction and operation of a University Residence & Community Complex, following a call for proposals issued last year.

GUG said that "as stated in the Budget proposal by the sub-committee formed to prepare the motions for the 2016 Budget, one of the main proposals was towards a university owned accommodation which had part of it's premises for Gozitan students to reside against a reasonable fee (against the extreme inflation of property in the vicinities of the University)."

"This proposal was not developed any further and was not spoken of after the Budget, when a raise in the accommodation grant was given instead,"The GUG said.

It added, that "although, the group was very thankful for the increase, one should not forget that this problem will only continue to grow with time.. Can this new contract be the light at the end of the tunnel?"

GUG stated that it is "stunned with this investment, as this will definitely be a helpful start for Gozitan students in finding accommodation."

The Gozo University Group said that "the question that now remains, is whether the University and the Government are also considering these apartments as a solution to the problem of Gozitan students in finding accommodation with reasonable prices?"

The Euro 25m complex to be built on a site covering 11,000 square metres will be similar to university complexes all over Europe. It will comprise of an 8 block student village, offering over 600 beds in different types of accommodation and a number of outlets and facilities all situated around a central plaza.

A tree lined boulevard will link the University building to the plaza. The complex will also house the University of Malta's child care centre and the University's language school.

The wellbeing facilities will cover an area of around 1400 square metres and will include a lap pool, gym & squash court, music practice rooms, study rooms and a multi faith hall. There will also be a commercial entertainment area housing food courts.

The complex will include 2 reservoirs, while an underground car park on 3 levels will offer over 450 new spaces.

The complex will be operated by Campus Residence Malta Limited, a new subsidiary of Vassallo Builders Group. It is scheduled to be operational by September 2018.

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