The old Dumfries and Galloway College is set to close

The decision will allow Dumfries and Galloway College to relocate from Heathhall to the new facility.

It will share the site with the University of Glasgow, University of Paisley and Bell College.

College Principal Tony Jakimciw said the project - which is due to open for the academic year 2008 - was "utterly unique" for Scotland.

"This is fantastic news and a hugely significant achievement for the college," he said.

This will be the first such collaborative project on this scale in Scotland and will provide outstanding new resources for our staff and students Principals' statement

"We are absolutely delighted that our vision has been realised and our hard work recognised.

"The new campus will be a 'one stop shop' and will allow our students to be the first in Scotland to benefit from this unique, highly progressive learning experience."

A �32m price tag had been attached to the project but additional European Regional Development Fund cash has taken the funding package to �37m.

'Trailblazing partnership'

Dumfries MSP Elaine Murray said the planning permission was "terrific news" and would allow the "trailblazing partnership" to progress.

A joint statement issued by the three principals of the institutions already on the Crichton campus also welcomed the approval.

"This will be the first such collaborative project on this scale in Scotland and will provide outstanding new resources for our staff and students," they said.