University faces twenty million in flood damage

DAMAGE caused by June’s flash flooding could cost the University of Stirling between £15-£20 million.

At an event held in the aftermath of the university flooding Principal Gerry McCormac revealed the estimated cost of the damage, and that a combined area the size of Pathfoot needed repairs.

The university has confirmed that sections of the Pathfoot building will take longer to repair, due to the building’s A-listed status, and that they will be working closely with Historical Environment Scotland on this issue.

Heavy damage to both the Pathfoot and Cottrell buildings has been reported, with areas cordoned off. Construction workers have been working on repairs over the summer.

Minor damage to some university accommodation was reported but this has been resolved and won’t affect any accommodation placements.

McCormac reportedly stated that the university’s aim is to have all classrooms repaired and fit for purpose for the start of the autumn semester.

However, there are concerns that repairs of water damage won’t be ready in time for the new semester, which starts on Monday September 9, and will add further disruption to students and staff alongside ongoing Campus Central redevelopments.

The cause of these concerns was industrial drying equipment being spotted on campus as well as desks and other furniture being removed from lecture theatres.

A university spokesperson previously said that they are confident that the “majority of rooms” will be ready by the time teaching starts and that priority teaching spaces in Cottrell will be ready by the start of the autumn semester.

The university’s insurance arrangements will cover the cost of the damage and staff have been praised for their work in the immediate aftermath of the flood damage.