The University of Wollongong may acquire historic Gleniffer Brae.The university already supports the Conservatorium of Music on the grounds of the historic manor, through an annual grant. Acquisition would be seen as a logical step.UOW Vice-Chancellor Gerard Sutton yesterday declined to comment, beyond saying the university had expressed an interest.``The university has advised Wollongong City Council of our interest in any future plans the council makes for Gleniffer Brae, because of the university's continuing financial and other support of the conservatorium,'' Professor Sutton said.While the university's intentions were not confirmed, a source told the Mercury purchase of the 81-year-old manor was on the agenda.Wollongong council's general manager David Farmer yesterday said several options were being canvassed, to make the site more accessible and cost effective for the community.``Any proposals about the future use of Gleniffer Brae will be determined in consultation with the community,'' Mr Farmer said.``Gleniffer Brae is listed on the State Heritage Register so any future uses must consider the important heritage value of the manor house and formal garden.''The homestead was built by steelworks founder Sid Hoskins in 1938 and Wollongong council bought it in 1978. It will close for public functions next May due to a drop in bookings.Friends of Wollongong Botanic Garden held their final Christmas luncheon at the manor yesterday, having celebrated the festive season at the venue for the past 28 years.Friends president David Murray said it was a pity the manor would no longer be accessible to the general public, but he understood ``everything runs on bottom lines''.Despite the manor's uncertain future, the council-owned garden that forms part of the property continues to go from strength to strength.``We had the children's play garden opened in the September holidays last year and it's been a great success,'' Mr Murray said.``Work is still going on around the duck pond to make it safer.''