Marine-school boost for industry - graduate jobs

Producing more graduates for the environmental and marine industries will be the focus of Plymouth University's planned new School of Marine Science and Engineering.

Hailed as potentially one of the biggest in Europe, with 85 staff and 1,400 students, it was announced at a one-day symposium on the Marine and Coastal Access Bill.

Hosted by the university, the event saw legal and environmental experts deliver presentations, debate topical issues and answer questions on all aspects of the bill.

The vice-chancellor, Professor Wendy Purcell, said: "The University of Plymouth has a worldwide reputation for excellence in marine skills, and is dedicated to helping further the development of the maritime sector through its cutting-edge research, teaching and knowledge exchange."

Plymouth MP Linda Gilroy said: "Plymouth has always been a maritime city of world importance, and in recent years this reputation has been enhanced through the city's marine science sector.

"Through the Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership the city is an international centre of excellence, and home to one of Europe's largest regional clusters of marine science and technology expertise."