A Students’ Union representative claimed that it would cost the University £225 million to “bring their accommodation in line with their own standards” at the most recent Union Executive meeting.
Oskar Barltrop, Sustainability Officer and last year’s Hall Community Officer of the Year, claimed that UCL Accommodation’s justification for ignoring these issues is “that some of the buildings are too old, so they’re not going to invest in them as they will be replaced soon anyway.” The Cheese Grater cannot verify this claim.
Barltrop alleged that this excuse has been used for 25 years, suggesting that “it’s just them saying they don’t want to invest in it.”
He added, “UCL Accommodation aren’t on our side, they’re well aware there are plenty of problems.”
Hana Mougharbel, the Welfare and Community Officer, similarly asserted that “we’ve agreed with the accommodation team that some buildings are just too old for design.”
The Cheese Grater previously reported that UCL Accommodation earned profits of £13 million last year, suggesting that they have the funds needed to begin these vital repairs.
Furthermore, rent prices were recently increased by 3.9%, meaning students are being gouged for money that should be going towards improving the quality of life for present and future residents.
Barltrop also suggested they may be ignoring these calls for help entirely, claiming, “UCL [Accommodation] are saying there were problems with the reporting system, when the problems were that reports weren’t being dealt with.”
A UCL spokesperson said: “We have been, and continue to, invest in all parts of our estate – which includes more than 4000 student bedrooms – irrespective of age.
“Maintaining an estate of this scale, especially with historic, listed buildings dating back to the nineteenth century, requires significant investment.
“That’s why we’ve substantially increased our repair and maintenance spend for residential buildings in recent years, and this commitment continues as part of our UCL Estates 2050 Vision.
“That investment will enhance the campus experience for all our students, staff and visitors, bringing long-term improvements to our accommodation, teaching and research spaces, public realm and offices.”
