The new boss of the University of East Anglia has said the troubled institution did not react quickly enough to changes in higher education.

David Maguire was appointed as vice-chancellor of the university in March, following the resignation of David Richardson.

Prof Richardson stood down shortly after it emerged the black hole in the UEA's finances was far greater than initially feared.

Prof Maguire has yet to take up his post but ahead of his arrival he issued a video message in which he addressed the financial turmoil.

Eastern Daily Press: David Maguire, vice chancellor of UEADavid Maguire, vice chancellor of UEA (Image: University of East Anglia)

In it he admitted the university has not adapted to changes in higher education as quickly as others - leading to its struggles.

"It is no secret that the university is currently facing some significant challenges," he said.

"The world of universities has changed substantially in the past decade with greater competition for resources both nationally and internationally.

"UEA has not adapted as quickly as some others to these changes and finds itself in a difficult, but far from impossible financial position."

The university is currently facing a black hole in its budget requiring it to make £45m in savings over the next three years.

It confirmed last week that £6m had already been found through voluntary severances - but further redundancies are still expected.

The Universities and Colleges Union (UCU) has already announced its UEA members are set to vote on whether to take industrial action.

But Prof Maguire has called for the UEA community to pull together through the uncertainty.

He said: "There appears to be a lack of confidence and uncertainty about what UEA stands for and what it's good at.

"That said, it's clear to me that the core fundamentals of UEA are sound and there is a great base on which to build.

"I believe there is already a broad consensus that the university should be dual intensive, both involved in research and teaching of the highest quality.

"Over the next few months I will be seeking widespread agreement on a clear, academic and financial strategy for the institution.

"Addressing the current challenges will require everyone to come together."