Durham Students Plan Protest over Accommodation Costs

In scenes similar to those witnessed in London due to protesting students of University College London (UCL), those at Durham University have begun campaigning against increasing accommodation costs.

Campaigners are staging a variety of events to coincide with planned open days for six formers visiting the city next week.

Students are angry at the universities decision to raise accommodation fees by 3.5% for a standard, catered room as from the 2016-17 academic year.

This would bring the total rental cost to more than £7,000, which is £2,500 more than a standard room at neighbouring Newcastle University.

It's estimated by students that accommodation costs have increased by 15% in just three years, which is resulting in the end of affordable student accommodation.

It's hoped that the planned protests will lead to better consultations between students and the university whilst also providing prospective students and their parents with an honest view of the situation.