Gillian Baxter on the university's accommodation challenge

The university was forced to put them in rooms usually costing around £100 a night because the students' accommodation - three houses on the campus - was not ready on time.

Facilities at the Merrion Hotel include a restaurant, ensuite bathrooms, free movies, satellite television and 24-hour room service.

Hannah Stringer: feeling unpopular

Sports science and physiology first year Hannah Stringer, 18, from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, said: "We all move around in each others' rooms, but we haven't had a party yet because I think the staff don't really like us.

"We don't really want to be seen as loafing students just taking another freebie - but I could stay here all the time."

Unfinished: the campus accommodation

First year sociology and social policy student Helena Cannon, 18, from Northwich, Cheshire, said: "We are certainly not roughing it.

"But it's not our fault so I don't think anyone can be critical of us. We are aiming to enjoy it while we can."

The university plans to recover the cost from the contractors.

David Irving, director of residential services, said: "We needed accommodation which would be satisfactory both for them and their parents.

David Irving: Accommodation had to be satisfactory

"It had to be fairly close to their hall of residence so they could take a full part in the social activities, but was also large enough to contain the whole group of 30 students."

First year chemistry student Simon Mudd, 18, from Chester-le-Street, Co Durham, said: "To be honest it's a bit of a hassle having to walk to and from the university.

"If we were in the halls, we would be on campus and able to walk straight into lectures.