STUDENTS in UCD have given the green light to an increase in the student levy which will enable the students' union to start building a new student centre.

In a referendum held in the college last week, students voted by a large majority to increase the current student levy from £10 to £30, an increase that should raise £5 million over 12 years.

Students' union president Shane Fitzgerald, said the union will meet with architects shortly and will apply for planning permission during the summer. The centre, to be built in the science car park, will include new bars, an entertainments venue, union offices and retail and food outlets. Plans are that it will be ready by the start of 1999.