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Universities in Greater Manchester object to University of Bolton proposed name change

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Featured image: Manchester Metropolitan University


The University of Bolton’s plan to rebrand itself with a regional name is set to face a legal challenge after neighbouring institutions objected to it.

The university’s application to change its name to the University of Greater Manchester is being opposed by Manchester Metropolitan University, The University of Manchester and the University of Salford.

The universities opposing this decision, which all use ‘Manchester’ in their branding, claim that the name ‘The University of Greater Manchester’ is “misleading” and may confuse prospective students exploring options to study in the city.

The Vice-Chancellor of Bolton, George Holmes shared with the BBC that he disagrees with the claim and the name change would bring an “enormous financial boost to the region.”

The University of Bolton applied for a change in its name last year with the argument that the campuses are spread across the city making the name, ‘The University of Greater Manchester’ more fitting than the current name. 

The opposing universities have issued over 100 legal challenges after protesting through the Office of Student’s Consultations, including Bolton’s trademarks for Greater Manchester and Greater Manchester Business School. 

In a statement released by Manchester Met, the university stated: “We have submitted our views on the proposed name change to the OfS as part of its consultation process. We have raised objections to those trademark applications submitted by the University of Bolton where we feel they impinge on our own registered trademarks.”

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