THE University of Worcester is among 30 universities nationwide who have renewed their commitment to put the economy and quality of life of their home towns as a priority.

The institutions, which include a number of Russell Group universities, have agreed to sign a new Civic University Agreement, which is a key recommendation in a report published by the Civic University Commission.

In the report, the commission, chaired by Lord Kerslake, former head of the civil service, sets out how universities have the capability, opportunity and responsibility to further support the places where they are based.

Some of the matters they can help solve include issues such as helping businesses adapt to technological change and boosting the health of local people.

The University of Worcester says it has demonstrated the contribution a university can make to society through the accessibility of its facilities, which are public by design, its cultural resources, raising the aspirations of children and young people and impacting on wider issues related to health, citizenship and community cohesion.

In its new Strategic Plan, launched just two weeks ago, the University commits to further extending and deepening its benefit to the region, the nation and the world, so that Worcester is recognised as the exemplar of a community-engaged university.

Professor David Green, vice chancellor and chief executive, said: “At Worcester we are very proud to be rooted in the community we so passionately serve.

"We recognise that the flourishing of the University is inextricably connected to the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the region in which we live.

“Our commitment to our city and our neighbours is not new; it is part of who we are, inherent in our work. By signing this new agreement we are further cementing that commitment.

“We have deliberately chosen to develop our estate inclusively, creating buildings that are conducive to co-operation and success, and we are delighted that The Hive, created in partnership with Worcestershire County Council, is featured in this new report, as an example of a university being central to the community it serves.”

Over the past decade, the University has had a significant contribution to the development of the city of Worcester, transforming derelict spaces and buildings into vibrant centres of learning, open to all, including The Hive and the University of Worcester Arena.

Last week, the University also formally opened its new Art House.

The report warns that there is a danger that any cut in the resources available to universities – for example, a reduction in student fees without the deficit being made up in funding from the Treasury - will mean that work already being done in the community – like help provided to schools and further education colleges – could be slashed.