Princess Anne is set to officially open the University of Gloucestershire's new City Campus on Friday, January 16, marking a significant moment for the institution and the local community.
The Princess Royal, whose residence at Gatcombe Park is situated near Minchinhampton, will visit the facility constructed on the former Debenhams department store location in Kings Square, Gloucester.
Students began using the campus in August, with the site now serving those studying education, psychology and social work.
Dame Clare Marchant MBE, the university's vice-chancellor, described the royal visit as "a fitting milestone for the development".
Princess Anne is set to University of Gloucestershire's new City Campus
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The university acquired the building in 2021 after the nationwide collapse of the Debenhams chain led to the closure of all its stores.
Working alongside construction firm Morgan Sindall, the institution transformed the vacant retail space into a modern educational facility.
The campus welcomed its first cohort of students this past August, with courses in education, psychology and social work now delivered from the Kings Square location.
Beyond its academic programmes, the campus houses additional amenities designed to benefit the wider community.
A public library has been incorporated into the building, alongside a newly established arts, health and wellbeing centre.
Dame Clare expressed that the institution is "immensely proud" of what has been achieved with the development.
Princess Anne is shaping up for a busy 2026 already with multiple engagements confirmed
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The university has stated that the new campus will play "a pivotal role in the regeneration of Gloucester City Centre" and has already generated £44million in social value.
This economic contribution underscores the broader impact of repurposing the former retail site for educational purposes.
Dame Clare emphasised the institution's commitment to honouring the city's past while looking forward.
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"We have always sought to ensure that City Campus honours Gloucester's heritage while creating new opportunities for learning, collaboration and civic engagement," she said.
"As such, this is a hugely exciting way to begin this new chapter."
The official opening ceremony next month will formally celebrate the completion of this transformative project for Gloucester.
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