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Update on University of Guelph-Humber relocation plans

After careful deliberation, the University of Guelph and Humber College have informed the City of Brampton of our decision to withdraw from discussions with the City to explore the relocation of the University of Guelph-Humber to Brampton’s planned Centre for Innovation (CFI).

The University of Guelph and Humber College began considering a new home for the University of Guelph-Humber to support continued growth and long-term expansion.

In June 2021, Brampton City Council unanimously supported a motion to direct City staff to enter into discussions with the two parent institutions on possibly relocating University of Guelph-Humber in its entirety to Brampton, with the University of Guelph-Humber as the anchor tenant of the planned CFI starting in 2026.

Throughout the process, which included detailed space analysis and refined requirements for instructional and study spaces, it became apparent that space constraints were a significant concern. This was raised in a letter to Council from Chris Whitaker, then President of Humber College, and Charlotte Yates, President of University of Guelph, which was shared with City staff on March 31, 2022.

In recent months, attempts to find additional space to deliver the high-quality student experience of a comprehensive university that meet the standards of Guelph-Humber and its parent institutions have been unsuccessful. Additionally, the timing of the construction of the planned CFI has yet to be confirmed.

This uncertainty creates a challenge when building a robust student recruitment plan. Timing is critical for us, as we are entering a new recruitment cycle. Current students, and those who are considering attending the university in the fall, as well as employees, must have certainty about where they will study and work in the coming years.

We thank the Mayor of Brampton and Brampton City Council as well as City of Brampton staff for their initial interest in welcoming the University of Guelph-Humber to Brampton’s planned Centre for Innovation. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the residents and businesses of Brampton for their interest and support of this exploration. Though the CFI opportunity will not sufficiently meet space and timing requirements, the University of Guelph and Humber College remain committed to accommodating the University of Guelph-Humber’s growth and welcome the opportunity to explore future partnerships with Brampton and the city’s business community.

Please direct any inquiries to: Caroline Grech Department Head, Communications and Public Affairs
caroline.grech@guelphhumber.ca