University of Newcastle upon Tyne

The complainant has requested information on refurbishment options, with emphasis on energy and carbon assessment, for Castle Leazes halls of residence site at Newcastle University (the University). The University disclosed some information but withheld a report to its Executive Board under regulation 12(5)(e). The complainant disputed whether all information relevant to the request had been located. The Commissioner’s decision is that the report withheld under regulation 12(5)(e) was correctly withheld and that the University has provided adequate explanations as to why no further information in scope of the request was held at the time of the request. However, he finds that the University did not comply with its obligation under regulation 5 EIR at the time of the request as it did not locate and provide all relevant information within the statutory timeframe. However as information has now been provided the University is not required to take any steps.