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Greenwich Royal Naval College's future secured
Greenwich, 28 March 1996
Defence Secretary, has announced that the University of Greenwich is the most appropriate contender to be the main occupant of the historic Greenwich Royal Naval College (which was originally Greenwich Hospital) with the National Maritime Museum using certain sections.
Michael Portillo has also announced that an independent trust will be set up to preserve the architectural and historic integrity of the famous Greenwich site.
Some of the buildings will be converted to provide sheltered accommodation for retired seafarers and their wives or widows.
Dr David Fussey, Greenwich University Vice-Chancellor, warmly welcomed the announcement. ``I am absolutely delighted that the university has been identified as the most appropriate, main occupant of the Royal Naval College site,'' he said. ``The maintenance and preservation of the architectural and historical integrity of the Royal Naval College site remains a top priority.''
Dr Fussey stressed there would be improved public access to the site to allow both local people and visitors to enjoy part of the nation's great heritage.
Greenwich University will work alongside HM Government in a bid to secure World Heritage status for Greenwich and transform it into a "British Versailles".
Detailed negotiations will now begin to refine the plans to occupy the college site.
Mr Portillo said: ``The Government is determined that the future use of the Royal Naval College should be one worthy of the magnificent site and in the best interests of Greenwich Hospital and the nation.''
Heritage Secretary Virginia Bottomley said the announcement confirms the Government's commitment to adopt the most effective means for ensuring the future conservation and use of ``these exceptional buildings''.
It is expected that the National Maritime Museum (currently based opposite the Naval College) will use the famed Painted Hall and Chapel, while Greenwich University will occupy the other areas for teaching, research and administration.
More than 800 organisations originally expressed an interest in Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece on the Thames, which was celebrated in oils by Canaletto.
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