THE news of the near-certain expansion of University College Worcester, and its probable transformation into a full-blown university, has been welcomed by all sections of the Faithful City community.

As the Evening News has been reporting, the innovative campus scheme on the Castle Street site will be of national significance.

A key part of the project is the plan to include accommodation for up to 400 students on the 55-acre city centre site.

As we said earlier this week, it will transform this corner of Worcester, redundant since the Worcester Royal Infirmary decamped in April last year.

But look beyond the state-of-the-art facilities, the plaza walkways and fancy architecture and what do you have?

Scores of students with time on their hands in the centre of a vibrant city which, with the best will in the world, could struggle to accommodate their social needs.

In the Evening News today comes a stark warning from local county councillor Andrew Roberts and it is timely to reflect on what he is saying for it is a view that will strike a chord with many.

Forget the euphoria of the grandiose plans...spare a thought for those that live close to this proposed seat of higher learning - the residents of the Arboretum, Britannia Square and nearby streets who are bound to be affected by the influx of these young people.

This newspaper has reported over recent months of the "challenges" being met in St John's to student "high spirits".

Let us take note of Coun Roberts timely warning.

Consult the local residents.

And take heed of what they say.