SECURITY patrols will be doubled and CCTV cameras installed at University College Worcester to combat "inadequate security".

Plans to step up security on campus have been made following a rise in thefts from cars last winter and a student union and police survey which highlighted worries about "dark and hazardous" parts of the campus.

Vandals have taken advantage of the openness of the grounds and the "inadequate security", UCW said in a statement.

The 860-space car park is already often full and parking is expected to become worse next term with more teachers being trained at the site and more community users.

Complaints have also been made about noise and poor behaviour by UCW students on campus and in St John's.

To tackle these problems, UCW has launched a raft of new measures.

In the short term, the college plans to install new lighting and CCTV, double security patrols, encourage car-sharing and cycling to work, put in traffic-calming measures and explore the possibility of a late night bus from the city centre to the campus.

The college also plans to introduce new charges for the campus car parks from September.

"All monies raised will be devoted to improving campus safety, security and facilities, as well as providing improvements in transport, other than private car use, to and from the campus," the UCW statement said.

A hotline already exists for residents to report problems that they have good grounds to believe are being caused by students.

Residents can call 01905 855524 and leave a message along with their name, address and telephone number.

"The senior management ensures that all reports are carefully investigated and that appropriate action is taken whenever possible," said the statement.

UCW will be holding an open meeting at the Worcester Room in its conference centre tonight, between 7pm and 8pm, to discuss these plans.

Suggestions can also be sent to John Ryan, Registrar, University College Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ.

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