That's a nice positive spin on the issue Heather. With 3 universites in Manchester 18 minutes away on the train (or an hour by the proposed Metrolink) then I don't really see your point. If 'home' based education is your wish then try the Open University.

This is just an opportunity to knock down what we have already, pour some more concrete and slash some cash into the developers' pockets.

And if anyone has the nerve to suggest its a daft idea, get the spin doctors to play the inclusivity card to suggest that Rochdale is missing out.

What Rochdale really needs is a Zoo - to house all the white elephants that are being imposed on us.

   What a great idea, it would benefit Rochdale immensley. With university proving to be highly expensive I'm sure that prospective students would appreciate a university closer to home! It's a struggle for young adults to dish out so much expense travelling to and fro, why shouldn't we have one?!

   I'm with Kevin here. What student in their right mind would want to live and study in Rochdale? And as for locals anyone with any sense whatsoever would opt to study elsewhere and get out of Rochdale.

   Sorry Trix87, but when Terry Piggott says "We want to keep the best and brightest in Rochdale, as well as attracting students from across the country." I wonder just what attractions Rochdale has to do that. The fact is that the best and brightest will be looking forward to leave and study elsewhere.

   What a negative comment! Maybe with more accessable higher education systems the bright people of Rochdale could change the views of people like you.

   Great idea. Rochdale could run specialised courses in Benefit Claiming, or maybe a BSc in Shoplifting Techniques?