Arts students could be moving to Leeds University's main campus

A report for university managers concluded that activities should be relocated to the Leeds campus.

A final decision is expected to be made by the university's governing council on 9 December.

Students said Bretton should not close despite university pledges that courses would not be affected.

Attractions appreciated

The university also said that the proposal ends a period of uncertainty for Bretton and emphasises the university's commitment to performance and cultural studies.

University pro vice chancellor Alan Pearman said: "Our vision has to be world class, and to achieve that we need to integrate arts excellence at Leeds, where our students have the best facilities, the widest range of study opportunities - and ready access to one of Britain's cultural capitals."

The university has about 1,000 students at Bretton, studying music theatre, acting, theatre, arts management, performance design and production, dance, creative writing and arts education.

'Difficult situation'

Students' union officers said they would make sure their concerns were raised with university officials.

The union's website said: "The lack of basic information to new students before arrival has made a difficult situation almost impossible for many.

"They arrived unaware of any possible plans to close the campus before the completion of their course. Leaving home for university is difficult; the current situation has exacerbated stress and could start to have an impact on students' work."

A university spokeswoman said trade unions would be consulted about changes to jobs if the site was closed.