THE Save Coate coalition could not agree more with the University of Bath (EA, A degree or two out on education Jan 21) that Swindon students should have the opportunity to study at a degree level in their home town.

A university campus in the town centre would be most welcome and bring new vitality to the central area. About 14,000 people have signed a petition to protect the countryside around Coate Water provisionally earmarked for housing and the University of Bath.

We would prefer no university if it means sacrificing this area to buildings. Swindon students can still obtain a university education elsewhere. The countryside cannot be replaced.

J Saunders

Save Coate Coalition