Report spells out benefits of university

Published on Wednesday 22 July 2009 09:52

QUEEN Margaret University is worth £77 million to the UK economy, a new study has revealed.

The research carried out by Strathclyde University also states that QMU's move to a new campus in East Lothian has brought significant benefits to the local economy.

The report reveals that every 1m of university spend generates four new jobs outside the university and a further impact of 380,000 in East Lothian.

QMU vice principal Rosalyn Marshall said: "As well as the immediate economic benefits we are pleased that we have been able to bring longer-term benefits to the community and assist the council in achieving its strategic priorities."

The university, which moved to its Musselburgh campus in 2007, represents three per cent of all employment in East Lothian.

Councillor Paul McLennan, East Lothian Council's economic development spokesman, said: "The council is pleased that, having fully supported QMU's move to East Lothian and welcomed it as our first institute of higher education, the university is making a significant impact on the local economy."