"This investment recognises Harlow's potential for major economic development growth and its already thriving research and development base. The project could not have happened without EEDA and our local and regional partners working together to benefit the local economy.

"We know from the success of our investments in campuses in Southend, Ipswich and Peterborough that these types of developments provide a focus for innovation and aspiration which translate into a direct rise in skills levels and real improvements in the local economy.

"Harlow traditionally has a very low rate of participation in higher education. This can affect the town's ability to attract high value businesses and for local people to secure high-earning jobs in the industries of the future such as ICT, pharmaceuticals and high-tech engineering. The new campus will attract new businesses to the region and offer even greater support to existing ones."

"That EEDA have confirmed the funding for the new Anglia Ruskin University campus in Harlow is excellent news and I am delighted that this project should go ahead as planned.

"As Minister for Higher Education, I saw on a day-to-day basis the effect new higher education initiatives could have on areas such as Harlow where HE participation is below the national average.

"Establishing a university presence in Harlow is more than just about creating a building. Anglia Ruskin having a physical presence on Harlow College's site, and students having the opportunity to continue their study here in the town, will be a key driver in developing skills relevant to the local economy and raising aspirations."

"This is excellent news for Harlow. The development of a university campus in our town, which we have long called for, is a huge boost for providing opportunities for local people. First-class higher education facilities are a must in developing Harlow as a place to live, work or visit. We want people to learn here and then live and work here making a difference to the community. This campus is an important strand of the work to improve Harlow's attractiveness to potential new or relocating businesses who will have a significant skills pool on their doorstep."

"We are absolutely delighted that our long-standing partnership with Harlow College can now move on to a completely different scale, giving people in Harlow significant local access to university courses. It is tremendous that with all the financial pressures upon them, EEDA has maintained their commitment to this project as have the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the Growth Partnership led by Harlow Council."