CAG Consultants were appointed to undertake an Economic Impact Assessment of the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) at its campuses in Epsom and Farnham. The objective of the exercise was to help explain the value of UCA to its local community and to demonstrate the economic benefits it brings. These benefits are wide ranging and often not fully understood or appreciated.
The University for the Creative Arts is a specialist creative arts institution that was established in 2008 following the merger of the Kent Institute of Art & Design and the Surrey Institute of Art & Design, University College. But its origins date back to the middle of the nineteenth century in various small arts schools and this year it celebrates the 150th anniversary of its presence across both Surrey and Kent.
The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) creates a significant economic impact through its direct role as an employer but more importantly through its wider role in supporting economic development.
There are impacts on:
- Businesses – through factors such as supplier networks and technology transfer;
- Residents – through providing job opportunities and social amenities;
- Students – through local community expenditure and supplying skilled workers; and
- Local Authorities – through raising the profile and image of the area.
Our study assessed these economic impacts as well as the wider social and cultural benefits that UCA brings through projects such as the Farnham Repair Café and the new Business School at Epsom.
