The leader of Carmarthenshire County Council has raised new fears over the future of Lampeter university.

Cllr Rob James said he had ‘serious concerns’ about the financial stability of University of Wales Trinity Saint David and ongoing restructuring.

“The Lampeter campus is the oldest degree-awarding institution in Wales and the fourth oldest in Wales and England, with the Royal Charter dating back to 1828,” he said.

“It is an important part of our heritage and culture in Wales, yet I have concerns that we are at risk of that campus being hollowed out.

“It is absolutely essential that guarantees be given to staff, students and the wider community that Lampeter will continue to provide a comprehensive range of undergraduate degrees at their campus.

“I have been contacted by a number of members of staff who are concerned about the restructuring and the ability to deliver on capital projects whilst ensuring the institution’s sustainability.

“Staff members believe that UWTSD’s rapid expansion has risked the university’s sustainability and locals have raised concerns that they believe Lampeter campus will turn into a further education institution in all but name.”

Cllr James’ comments came after Ceredigion Labour Party also expressed concerns over the future of the Lampeter campus.

“UWTSD has seen significant job losses and experienced a steep decline in student numbers since its merger with Trinity College and then with Swansea Met,” they said in a statement.

The university maintains its future is not at risk.

See this week’s South Ceredigion paper for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now