The University of Tasmania has announced plans to develop in Kangaroo Bay

UTAS has announced it will go ahead with developing a hospitality school on Hobart’s Eastern Shore.

Proposed Kangaroo Bay hotel development. Picture: Hunter Developments (Robert Morris-Nunn )

THE University of Tasmania has announced it will go forward with plans to develop a hospitality school on Hobart’s Eastern Shore.

In a collaboration with Chinese company Chambroad, the University will develop the school alongside a planned hotel in Kangaroo Bay, after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the company in July.

The $85 million venture is designed to meet the state’s need for international standard tertiary studies in tourism, Associate Professor, College of Business and Economics, Stuart Crispin said.

“In looking at this opportunity a picture has emerged of a place which could become one of the genuinely standout hospitality management offerings in the country,” Associate Professor Crispin said.

TALKING POINT: WHAT IS PROPOSED AT KANGAROO BAY

“Through the practical hands-on experience of a hospitality school located in a new hotel.”

Chambroad director Finely Zhang said the development is the next exciting phase of the hotel project.

An artist’s impression of Kangaroo Bay development.

“We are looking forward to developing both the hospitality school and an internationally-branded hotel at Kangaroo Bay,” Mr Zhang said.

“The hospitality school will be an important learning institution for the growing tourism industry of Tasmania, helping young Tasmanians and students from other states into careers within the industry.

“We want to build a hospitality school with a reputation for excellence both in Australia and internationally.”

The Hodgman Government has welcomed the news, saying the $85 million development will create more than 100 jobs during the construction phase and deliver “ongoing economic benefits” for the whole region.

“The development will deliver a globally leading hospitality management college linked to a boutique hotel, restaurants and conference facilities,” Minister for State Growth Michael Ferguson said.