"In a reply to Councillor Ian Borthwick, who wrote to express his concern over the future of the botanic garden, a spokeswoman for the principal said rising pay awards, pensions and utility bills are expected to amount to £10 million more than budgeted for the period 2006-9, and cuts would have to be made."

"Student groups, however, dispute that figure and say that rather than a claimed £1.6 million deficit last year, the university actually made a profit through the sale of assets, backing up their claims by saying they have seen the most recent accounts."

"Dundee University and College Union (DUCU) suggested the university’s extensive campus redevelopment programme was to blame for any financial deficit, while one student member added that the principal had previously told students the recent pay award had been budgeted for."

"The students now plan to meet the principal and hold a rally next week, in addition to organising a petition and picketing the 40th anniversary celebrations for the university at the Caird Hall."

"Following the formation of a new campaign group to fight the possible threat to the botanic garden, councillors of all parties have expressed their support for the group and urged the university to reconsider any thoughts of ending their £250,000 per annum lease on the world-renowned attraction."

"Last week the university announced it would be cutting jobs and courses in a bid to achieve savings of £4.3 million."

"Management are said to be putting together proposals to slash 100 jobs, which the university has denied, and make cuts in town and regional planning and languages departments."

"The botanic garden is one area the university is said to be looking at for savings, although management deny there are any proposals to close it."

"In the reply to Mr Borthwick, the spokeswoman said, “It is not correct to say the botanic garden ‘is proposed for closure’."

"“However, it is true that the university’s recent sustainability review has identified the botanic garden as one of a number of areas in which we should consider making targeted savings."

"“Like you, the university has a great affection for the garden and we appreciate the place it has been accorded within the life of the city."

"“The hard facts are that, in common with other universities in Scotland, the University of Dundee is facing tough financial times. We simply have to reduce costs and generate more income from our own educational and research activities."

"“In facing these issues, I am sure you will understand that our prime focus, however hard, must be on safeguarding the university’s
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