UEA financial crisis: 11pc increase in new student arrivals

Later this month, almost 7,000 new arrivals will begin their studies at the University of East Anglia.

It had been feared that the university's current financial difficulties may lead to further drop-offs in student numbers.

David Maguire, vice chancellor of the UEA (Image: University of East Anglia)

However, the figure - which could potentially rise as the clearing process continues - is an 11pc increase on the numbers that arrived in September last year.

It comes despite a tumultuous time for the university, with bosses needing to make £45m of savings over the next three years.

David Maguire, new vice chancellor of the UEA, said: "Just under 7,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students will be joining us this month on full-time taught courses, which is an 11pc increase on last year.

"We are very positive about these figures and looking forward to the future, including engaging new and returning students in the development of the university's new vision and strategy.

"More immediately, we're excited about the buzz they will bring the campus when they arrive."

Meanwhile, university bosses have said they are "cautiously optimistic" that they will be able to make the £30m in savings needed this year without making compulsory redundancies.

Last month, the university's governing body heard it was on track to make the savings it needed for the upcoming financial year.

Christine Bovis Cnossen, deputy vice chancellor, said: "We are cautiously optimistic that we will be able to bring this phase of savings to a conclusion without compulsory redundancies, which is always what we hoped to achieve.

"We have worked hard to resolve our financial issues and following a successful student recruitment round, we are moving forward with confidence and optimism for the future.

"We look forward to welcoming many new and returning students to Norwich in September."