ABOUT 1,200 Essex University students are being kept in the dark for up to THREE WEEKS following electrical faults in their accommodation.

Letters were sent to the students in all six towers – Keynes, Rayleigh, Tawney, William Morris, Bertrand Russell and Eddington – at Essex University’s Colchester campus.

It said they will be without lighting for up to three weeks while work takes place.

Repairing the fault, which has not been disclosed by the university, will involve switching off lighting in bedrooms and some common areas.

Alternative lighting has been provided so the buildings can remain in use, a university spokesperson said. As a “goodwill gesture” the university is giving students a two-week refund on their rent, as well as a two-week supply of food vouchers which can be used on any campus food outlets.

It is unknown how much the overall cost to the university will be as a result.

A 19-year-old first year law student, who lives at Rayleigh Tower with 12 others, said she arrived home to find a variety of lamps in the corridor.

She said: “It’s a big inconvenience in terms of when I want to revise in the room because I won’t be able to. The lamps aren’t as bright as an overhead light so I have no choice but to leave my room, which is annoying so close to exams season in May.

“All of us have different types – mine is tall and quite pretty as it has a flowery design over it but then the room gets illuminated with the pattern, so it sounds nice but doesn’t provide enough light.”

She added: “The university were quite quick and I’ve already received my vouchers.”

The university added: “Academic life, including exams, will continue as timetabled.”

Further information for students and parents is available from the Student Information Team on 01206 874000 or by emailing askthehub@essex.ac.uk.