It has been confirmed that Southside will remain open as a hall of residence from October to June next year to cater for its last group of undergraduates before the building undergoes a major renovation in July 2005. After the problems suffered by the residents of Falmouth Keogh this year it had been suggested that the building would close to new residents nine months earlier than planned due to the continuing deterioration of its facilities. However, after complaints by the current residents, high ranking members of college staff have become involved in the issue to ensure that all of the recurring problems are solved and that the building remains a viable student residence next year.

After discussions between the Falmouth Keogh residents, the Union President, Residences, and the Rector, changes have been agreed upon to maintain and improve the living conditions in both Falmouth Keogh and Selkirk Tizard halls.

In a detailed message to Mustafa Arif (Union President), Sir Richard Sykes confirmed that major changes by both residences and estates would take place. Some of the actions agreed were:

• Maintenance of Linstead plant room to reduce hot water problems.
• Alarm system to give early warning of water shortage problems.
• Stockpiling of drinking water in case supply is disrupted.
• More frequent garbage removal.
• Initiation of weekend cleaning of facilities.
• Cleaning products made available to students.
• Scheduled limescale removal to avoid blockage of sewerage outlets.
• Internal redecoration and modernisation of showers.

This news will come as a relief for the continuing residents of the building and should avoid a drop in supply of halls places for incoming undergraduates. College's plans for managing the expected reduction in bed spaces when Southside finally closes are still under development.