Ulster University’s expansion in Londonderry is facing a major challenge. A shortage of student housing is putting pressure on both students and the local community.
Growing Demand for Accommodation
Gareth Kennedy, interim director of campus life at Magee, confirmed there is a long waiting list for student housing. The campus has 6,300 students this term. However, the goal is to reach 10,000, which means more accommodation is urgently needed.
Students like Cammy Doherty and Conor McMenamin travel from Donegal every day. “It’s really hard to find anywhere because it’s just so expensive,” Cammy explained. Shared houses often cost nearly the same as private apartments. As a result, many students feel priced out of the market.
Calls for Solutions
Stephen Kelly, chair of the Magee taskforce, said hundreds of students are on waiting lists. “The accommodation issue continues to be a major challenge,” he said. He believes private developers must step in, just as they have in other university cities.
Third-year students also shared their struggles. Niamh Byrne often takes early trains from Belfast, while Eoin McGlinchey warned that rising rents may drive students away. “It isn’t sustainable anymore,” Eoin said.
Community Concerns
Local residents also worry about housing pressure. Margaret Gallagher, part of a community group, said while expansion is positive, the city was not ready for the demand. She fears too many houses could be converted into shared student homes, creating problems for neighborhoods.
Despite concerns, the Department for the Economy confirmed that land for teaching space has been secured. The focus now is on building enough student housing. Officials say they will work with the council and community to ensure growth benefits both students and residents.
