Heriot-Watt University has 'no plans to leave the Scottish Borders'

Former foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt makes a t-shirt screen print with help from technician Grace Smith (left) as John Lamont MP (centre) looks on during a previous visit to the School of Textiles and Design at the Heriot Watt University campus in Galashiels

Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 13th May 2024
Last updated 13th May 2024

Heriot-Watt University says it has no plans to leave the Scottish Borders.

It follows a report elsewhere this morning (Monday) that it may be considering moving its world-famous School of Textiles and Design from Galashiels to Edinburgh.

Uni bosses told Greatest Hits Radio they have carried out a Strategic Review of its campus at Netherdale and that various options - aimed at "enhancing its contribution to the region" - are set to be finalised in the coming months.

A spokesperson for Heriot-Watt University said: “Heriot-Watt University has no plans to leave the Scottish Borders. Our School of Textiles and Design will remain at our Galashiels campus.

“As a forward-looking university, we have carried out a Strategic Review to refine and enhance our contribution to the region. Various options are being considered and the outcomes of this work will be finalised and shared in the coming months.

“Our plans are focused on improving student experience, including social engagement and access to support.

"We are also considering how best to align our offer with the skill needs in the South of Scotland alongside preferred study choices of our students while also continuing to work in partnership with Borders College and other FE providers where practicable.”

The School of Textiles and Design attracts students from around the world to Galashiels, with fashion designer Dame Vivienne Westwood describing the facilities as “the best in the UK”.

The Uni was joined by Borders College at Netherdale in April 2009, with the new joint campus receiving £32 million worth of investment. New halls of residence were also built.

It followed speculation of a move away from the region, which was built around the weaving industry, in 2004.

Formerly known as the Scottish College of Textiles, the school of textiles and design was established in 1883 and has developed into an leading international textile institution whose graduates work all over the world.

Voicing her support for the campus, Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton said: “This popular course provided exciting opportunities for a lot of young people and helped them get their careers started. It belongs in the Borders and should remain here."

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