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Maryvale House
Maryvale House
Gerry Dryden, Archdiocese of Birmingham Human Resources and Communications Director:
"As you might recall from the recent statement from Eric Kirwan, Chief Operating Officer, the Archdiocese of Birmingham announced it is considering options for the future of Maryvale House, a grade II* listed building, following the decision by the Diocesan Trustees not to develop the site as a Diocesan Hub.
It is important to remember that the situation at Maryvale House has no direct bearing on the viability or the future of Maryvale Institute, which is strongly supported by the Archdiocese.
A small team of Maryvale Institute and Archdiocese staff are currently working on developing proposals for the Institute use of Maryvale House. As it might take some time to identify and adapt the future use of Maryvale House, the Institute will remain at Maryvale House during the forthcoming academic year (2021/22), allowing for staff to work flexibly and courses to continue online. Sadly, the Bridgettine Sisters will leave Maryvale.
I will of course ensure that you are kept updated regarding proposals as they are firmed up over the coming months."
Archbishop Bernard Longley:
"The Archdiocese of Birmingham has announced it is considering options for the future of Maryvale House, a listed building which is in great need of renovation.
The Archdiocese strongly supports the Maryvale Institute. It is important to state that the situation at Maryvale House has no direct bearing on the viability and future of the Institute. The Archdiocese will ensure that the Maryvale Institute has suitable accommodation as it discerns how best to resolve the needs of Maryvale House.
Statement from Maryvale Institute:
As the Archdiocese of Birmingham has announced, it is considering options for the future of Maryvale House. There had been plans for it to become a Diocesan hub but the building has turned out to require a great deal of expensive renovation which the Diocese cannot afford in the present period of financial stringency. Sadly, this has meant that the Bridgettine sisters who have contributed so much to the Institute will shortly be leaving to work in other houses of their Order.
The Archdiocese has clearly stated publicly that it strongly supports Maryvale Institute and that the discussions about Maryvale House have no bearing on the Institute’s viability and future, and we are all very grateful to the Archbishop for such a clear commitment.
The Institute will therefore continue to work online as it has so successfully for the last year, recruiting and educating students as usual. At the same time there will be a search for suitable accommodation consistent with its wish to return to some element of residential teaching as soon as possible. All Maryvale staff remain absolutely committed to teaching our students so that they receive the best possible education.