Members of the public banned from UEA bars
Ban follows nasty on-campus incidents earlier this year
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Members of the public living near the University of East Anglia have been banned from visiting bars or pubs on campus.
UEA’s union made the decision after a number of incidents involving non-students earlier this year. In March, one second-year student was left with broken bones in his face, a damaged jaw and misaligned teeth after being assaulted by a member of the public.
Rosie Rawle, union of UEA student communications officer, put the decision down to safety: “As a student charity, we are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of our members, and look forward to providing a safer and student-focused environment in our licensed premises.”
Current students and alumni will still be able to bring guests to the bars, but they must have proof of ID. Those attending gigs at the LCR will be able to use the facilities on campus, providing they have a ticket.
Billy Sexton, a third-year Modern History student, welcomes the ban: “I think banning the public is a good move from the union. It increases the safety of students from the very small minority that cause trouble and allows for the maximum enjoyment of the services that the Union provides.”
UEA’s registrar and secretary Brian Summers said: “We very much support the student union’s decision to review the access to its licensed premises.
“While we offer a number of events which welcome the public onto campus, we agree that the bars and club nights should focus on the student body and meeting their needs.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments