The master plan for the University of Tasmania’s city campus in Launceston has been released for public feedback.
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Architects McBride Charles Ryan with project partners from the university, city council, and state and federal governments unveiled the blueprints for $260 million UTAS Inveresk relocation on Tuesday.
“It’s a major step in Launceston’s history and today is the day in which Launceston takes the first step towards becoming a university city,” UTAS Vice Chancellor Peter Rathjen said.
“We are not proposing to build a traditional university campus. This master plan outlines a dynamic high education and research ecosystem as part of the Inveresk precinct and the beating heart of Launceston.”
He said the vision incorporated modern, fit-for-purpose teaching and learning spaces a short walk to the CBD and research facilities focused on distinctive fields of academic endeavor to drive better outcomes for the North.
Federal Assistant Minister for Cities Angus Taylor said the project could turn Launceston into one of the best university cities in the world.
“This is a much-awaited master plan, reflecting the community’s desire for a vibrant, accessible university precinct, attractive to the entire Launceston community,” he said.
“Universities attract jobs, attract investment, visitors and most importantly opportunities for not just the people directly involved in the university but for the whole city. That’s what we are focused on.”
Treasurer Peter Gutwein said the project was a game changer for Northern Tasmania.
“Today we take a giant leap forward. This project will be the single largest construction project in the North of the state ever,” Mr Gutwein said.
“This is Northern Tasmania's opportunity for cultural change in our community whereby the value of education will be front and centre.”
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Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said the council was pleased to see the university eager to engage with the wider community on its vision for the new campus.
“It is an imperative that this engagement process occurs prior to the university lodging its development application so that the community is aware of the university's vision and how the city and greater region can continue to enjoy the Inveresk site into the future,” Ald van Zetten said.
Holly Monery
Holly Monery is a journalist for The Examiner newspaper, based in Launceston, Tasmania. Her main area of focus is local government.
Holly Monery is a journalist for The Examiner newspaper, based in Launceston, Tasmania. Her main area of focus is local government.
