In an interview with the Wessex Scene, Simon Higman, the University’s Registrar and Chief Operating Officer explained exactly what had happened.
In spite of the fact that grit had been ordered well in advance of the closure, the expected 130 bags of grit did not arrive as they had been diverted to the Highway Agency instead, to ensure that essential roads were kept clear. Higman stressed that the two fundamental questions that needed to be taken into consideration regarding the closure, were; whether or not we could keep the campus safe, and if we can, is it safe to travel to the campus. An unnamed member of staff was reported to already have broken their elbow.
When questioned on future plans regarding preparation for the snow, Higman stated that everything was going to be reviewed once the situation has been dealt with, looking into the possibility of stockpiling grit (especially in places like halls), and if in the future, the option of not closing completely (leaving the library and the piazza open). <... (read more)
