Dundee University job cuts more than halved in revised money-saving plans amid £35m deficit

Proposed job cuts have been more than halved in the revised money-saving plans revealed by the University of Dundee.

The revised plans come after the university received backlash for plans to cut 700 jobs to fill a £35m deficit.

The new plans could see a reduction of up to 300 roles through a voluntary severance programme.

It comes after the university previously revealed that it would be “out of cash” by the end of June.

Unite the union revealed on Friday that around 70% of its 170 members at Dundee voted in favour of strike action as the university grapples with the deficit.

In March, Professor Shane O’Neill, interim principal and vice chancellor, said the cuts were due to “inadequate financial discipline and control”, “inadequate oversight”, and “gaps in the competence” of school leadership.

On Tuesday, the vice chancellor said the renewed vision will allow the university to deliver in education, research and knowledge exchange.

“We will remain an attractive destination for students from Scotland and across the world, offering an outstanding student experience,” he said.

He added that the “alternative approach” was presented to the University Court on Tuesday morning which has endorsed the plans.

Professor O’Neill said the proposed route forward will require “significant” additional public funding.

“We are engaged in discussions, through the Scottish Funding Council, as we look to secure that support over the next two years, including any related conditions and assurances,” he said.

“Further liquidity support funding may also be required.”

He continued: “We are now working to develop the full details of the proposed pathway and on plans for implementation. This will include details of a voluntary severance scheme.

“We will continue to engage with staff, students and union leaders as we consult on the details of this alternative way forward and begin to implement it.

“This is a significant step towards a more sustainable future for the University and the ongoing delivery of excellent education, research and enterprise.”