Partying university students face being given the boot from their accommodation after cops were called to break up several “illegal gatherings”.
The University of Edinburgh has been forced to issue a stern warning to their learners after repeated breaches of social distancing rules at Pollock Halls.
Education chiefs have blasted the ‘immature’ students for putting others at risk and wasting police time during freshers week at the top university.
Students have been warned that anyone caught mixing with more than six people from a maximum of two different households - both on and off campus - face being suspended.
Gavin Douglas, deputy secretary of student experience, also confirmed that they may also be kicked out of the university-run accommodation, STV News reports.
Gavin Douglas, deputy secretary of student experience said: “Neither the university nor the police can accept this sort of reckless and immature behaviour, which puts the health and safety of others at risk and wastes police time.
“As a University of Edinburgh student you are bound by the University’s Code of Student Conduct. Behaving in a way that impairs safety is an offence under the Code.
“The University will take the strongest possible action under the Code if there continue to be illegal gatherings of our students.”
In a bid to crackdown on rule-breakers, university bosses have also ordered the outdoor seating at Pollock site.
Mr Douglas added: “As a result of the problems in recent nights, we will be removing all outdoor seating from around the Pollock site.
“We are also ceasing the option to take food away from the John MacIntyre Centre and we will review this position regularly.
“The Covid-19 pandemic requires all of us to make changes to the way we live in order to stop the spread of disease and keep others safe.
“Life for all of us has to be different as a result.
“As the newest members of the University of Edinburgh community, I ask you all to accept your new responsibilities and abide by the rules.”
A University of Edinburgh spokesperson said: “We are working hard to ensure all of our new and returning students are aware of the importance of following Scottish Government guidelines - both on and off campus - to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
"As well as our Student Code of Conduct, we have created a Good Citizen Guide, which sets out clear guidelines for our community during this time.
“Our on-site Residence Life team are regularly promoting Covid-19 safety messages and challenging any inappropriate behaviour.
“While the vast majority of our students are observing the rules, if a student is found to be intentionally or repeatedly failing to comply with safety measures, they will face appropriate action.”
