University of Newcastle: $136m plans revealed for STEMM research centre

A NSW university has revealed massive expansion plans as part of a development application for a new research centre. See what is being proposed.

Artist impressions of the University of Newcastle STEMM research facility.

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Plans for a new $135.9m educational facility to be constructed at the University of Newcastle have been revealed as the NSW Planning Department call for submissions on the state significant project

The massive crown development application, which is currently being assessed by the NSW Government, proposes the construction of an 18,000sqm science, technology engineering, maths and medicine precinct at University Drive, Callaghan.

A look inside the futuristic research centre.

The plans include a five-storey building comprising of a technology platform, retail cafe, amphitheatre, showcase spaces, teaching laboratories, research space and connections to the university’s great hall.

The proposal also including teaching and learning spaces over a series of levels.

Several designs were raised for the STEMM research building, with the university board deciding on plans by Lyons in partnership with EJE.

“The design is a square plan form, with STEMM principles at the centre, and all disciplines, researchers and students represented equally,” a planner for the proposal said.

“Connectivity and flexibility are maximised over three super large square floor plates providing optimal flexibility and accessibility on each level.

The new research facility will have links to existing spaces across the campus.

“At the centre of the floor plates is a circular light filled atrium.”

The planner said the design was preferred due to its “impressive, welcoming presence at the entrance to the University and opportunity for connectivity to the Great Hall”.

“The building maximises the transparency objective of the building by allowing people to

see into the building on all sides through floor to ceiling glazing,” the planner said.

You can have your say on the plans for the University of Newcastle proposal until April 8, visit planningportal.nsw.gov.au to make a submission.