The University of Bath is to establish a new site in the town, using existing accommodation in the soon to close Oakfield School in the Parks area. New facilities are to be built over the next five years.

The agreement between the university and Swindon Borough Council to open an annexe was announced on 21 October, after several years discussion facilitated by the University of Swindon and Wiltshire Project.

The first teaching programme, ranging from Masters to community courses will be launched in less than a year, in September 2000. Within five years It is anticipated that there will be around 80 researchers, 450 postgraduate students and an equal number of undergraduates.

The main headquarters for the university's activities in Swindon will be based in a landmark building in the town centre. The new campus to be developed over the next three to five years at Oakfield will include an integrated community library and learning centre, multi-purpose conference and concert facilities.

Sue Bates, leader of Swindon Council, said, "this is a significant step forward in achieving a local university in Swindon for the 21st Century. It is something Swindon has deserved for a long time and we have campaigned hard for this. I believe a university will enhance the vibrancy of the town, as well as maintain our position as an economic powerhouse."

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath, Professor David VandeLinde welcomed the expansion to Swindon. "This is a very exciting opportunity for the University to expand its higher education provision in Wiltshire. The new campus in Swindon will complement the existing facilities in Bath, which will see significant development over the next five years."

Cranfield University already has an annexe in Swindon.