Macquarie University law building plans revealed

Despite warning of tens of millions in lost revenue and possible job cuts, a Sydney university appears to have shaken off the COVID crisis with stunning new plans.

Macquarie University has revealed plans to build a new $28 million law school building as it seeks to future proof its campus.

The university has lodged plans to demolish the current law building to construct a new four-storey complex at 17 Wally's Walk.

“This is an opportunity to revitalise the outdated facility and give it a new life to support the next generation of students and scholars,” according to the plans.

It comes just months after the university reportedly cut dozens of staff to make a reported $25 million saving as a result of the pandemic.

Macquarie University has revealed its plans to build a new state-of-the-art law school building

In an email last year vice-chancellor Bruce Dowton said the university is expecting a teaching revenue shortfall of $40-60 million for the year and a total revenue shortage of about $80 million.

However, recent planning documents show the university is forging ahead with the law school building.

Situated in the heart of the campus, the building will be 18.8m high and cost about $28m to build.

Levels 1 and 2 will include law commons, academic workspaces, a mooting court structure and specialist law teaching facilities.

Special event and meeting spaces, an outdoor terrace, flexible working spaces and offices will be situated on level 3.

Macquarie University's $28M law school revamp

The proposal also seeks to increase its student and staff numbers from 835 to 1,324, resulting in an overall increase of 489.

Through the revitalisation of the MQU Law School building, the university seeks to “become a leader in the field of law education,” according to the plans.

Artist impression of the interior of the law building

The building will act as a “catalyst” to drive forward the reputation of Macquarie Law and ”establishing its presence on a global platform.”

It further seeks to encourage more opportunities for innovation and collaboration between industry, academia, and the community.

A Macquarie University spokeswoman said: “The development of the law school building is part of a new strategic phase in the history of the Macquarie University Law School.

“The new building will be a modern hub that will enhance students’ learning experience, designed for collaboration and engagement with our partners.”

The current law building was opened in 1985 and has undergone multiple renovations since with the most recent being in 2007.

Artist impression of the new law building

The application has been referred to the Sydney North Planning Panel.

Plans are on public exhibition until June 16.