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

A report for university managers has recommended that activities should be relocated to the Leeds campus in 2007.

Students will continue to be recruited in 2005 and 2006, but will be informed about the relocation plans.

Union spokesman Tom Wong said Bretton students were pleased with the end of uncertainty surrounding the closure.

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

We are now working to ensure that all students are fully consulted during the relocation process Tom Wong, Leeds University Union

University pro vice chancellor Alan Pearman said: "We have listened carefully to the concerns of our students and we have carried out a full assessment of the logistics.

"As a result, we firmly believe that a move in 2007 would be in the best interests of students and staff at Bretton, and the university as a whole. It gives us time to ensure that excellent facilities will be in place at Leeds."

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

A new �1.5m theatre is planned for the Leeds campus for use by students arriving at the site in 2007.

The university is also in talks with Leeds City Council to give students access to the new Carriageworks theatre and arts centre in Millennium Square.

"We are now working to ensure that all students are fully consulted during the relocation process," said Tom Wong, "with the university giving students the opportunity to feel part of any new facilities based at Leeds."