University backing for Leuchars

The case for the retention of RAF Leuchars

The University of St Andrews has added its voice and unqualified support to the substantial group of organisations and individuals campaigning to retain Leuchars as a fully functioning RAF base.

As a near neighbour of the base, the University of St Andrews is deeply concerned that its loss or any diminution in the services it provides would have a profound and irrecoverably damaging effect on local communities, local economy and the wider Scottish and UK national interests.

In a message of support for the Task Force leading the campaign to keep the RAF in Leuchars, University of St Andrews Quaestor and Factor Derek Watson said:

“Leuchars is a unique and indelible part of the fabric and history of North East Fife. The economic and social benefits it has brought to generations of people in Fife and further afield are inarguable.

“It is important however that due consideration is given to the often overlooked fact that RAF Leuchars is more than a highly effective and key element of the UK’s air defences.

“In addition to being a generator of wealth and employment in the local community, Leuchars has for many years shared a bond of common interest with the University. Each of us has come to rely on the other for mutual benefit. In many cases, our staff who work in St Andrews have partners or family members who work at Leuchars.

“Leuchars and the university have been responsible for attracting new talent, new opportunity and new industry to Fife and Scotland.

“We share a common interest in research and the advancement of science and potential spin-offs in the aerospace industry.

“St Andrews students continue to benefit from a long and mutually nourishing relationship with Leuchars via the ATC.

“At Guardbridge where the University has recently acquired the former Curtis Fine Papers Mill, we are developing plans for a renewable energy centre which we hope might allow Leuchars to offset its own energy costs.

“The University believes that the strategic defence, economic and social arguments in favour of the retention and continued investment in RAF Leuchars are overwhelming and we add our voice to the thousands of individuals and organisations who have already declared their support.”

For further information please contact:

Niall Scott
Director of Corporate Communications
University of St Andrews
St Katharine’s West
The Scores
St Andrews
Fife  KY16 9AL
Scotland

Tel 01334 462244, mobile 07711 223062

Email [email protected]