In a move to address security concerns, Western University announced Tuesday that Homecoming Saturday has been moved to Oct. 22.
Although, previously planned events will still take place during "Reunion Weekend" from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2.
The move is in relation to massive and unsanctioned off campus street parties on Broughdale Ave. that have seen underage drinking, public intoxication and illicit drug use.
These parties in the past have attracted as many as 10,000 people.
“As Western’s President and as a parent, my greatest concern is the safety of our students,” said Western President Amit Chakma in a news release.
“University administration, London Police Service, Middlesex-London Emergency Management Services, City of London officials, and hospital medical staff have held several meetings on this issue and we all share concerns this street party has escalated to such levels that more decisive action is required.”
University brass say that moving the event later in October will put pressure on students who will be focused on midterms and other assignments.
A chance for poorer weather is also cited as a factor.
“Moving Homecoming is only one of the means by which we will be encouraging students to find safer forms of entertainment,” added Chakma in the release.
“I remain personally committed to doing everything we can as a university to build awareness of how serious the Broughdale issue has become. Western is fortunate to have the support of important community partners such as the London police and we will continue to work collaboratively to address the problem.”
