The merger of UMIST and the Victoria University of Manchester to form the new University of Manchester provided a one-off opportunity to review, assess and strategically plan for the provision of sport within the University. KKP was commissioned to do this.

The first issue addressed was the rationale for providing sporting opportunities for students and staff. A close, strong working relationship was developed with senior management to identify the justification for such investment. Areas identified included contribution to University profile and image, its role in student recruitment/retention, promoting the value of health and fitness for students and staff, the personal development of graduates and supporting delivery of excellence in teaching and research. At the same time KKP specified systems to ensure that an improved evidence base is available in future to support this case.

Once the case for sport was made, KKP proposed a service structure to make it more student-centred. This was geared to raising levels of student/staff participation in sport and physical activity.

At the heart of the proposed structure is a new funding regime, providing sport with a performance related allocation from student fees. This firmer funding basis will, if/when implemented allow the service to deliver related strategic marketing proposals, which include, amongst a range of other service elements, greater promotion throughout the year to a broader range of students.

The opportunities afforded the University of Manchester by its location close to World class amenities (such as the Manchester Aquatics Centre and the English Institute of Sport) have been enhanced by capital investment in its own facilities. KKP also scoped a club development strategy to ensure that Athletic Union clubs provide a stable base of quality activity, which is less reliant upon the individuals elected each year.

Since KKP's strategic review, students and staff at the University now have access to a broader range of quality sports facilities plus a strengthening, and more stable, set of clubs with excellent links to the sporting networks in the City.

Implementation of the full range of proposals will, if successful, place the University at the forefront of sport and physical activity provision in the higher education sector in the UK.