New University of Tasmania Cradle Coast Campus taking shape
A Tasmanian mayor has hit out at critics of the University of Tasmania’s $50m investment in his city as work progresses.
The Launceston News
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BURNIE mayor Steve Kons has hit out at critics of the University of Tasmania’s $50m investment in his city as work progresses on the biggest building project in Burnie since its pulp mill was constructed.
“To everyone who thought this would never happen, here it is,” Mr Kons said as construction of the new Cradle Coast Campus on the waterfront continued to take shape on Wednesday.
“Burnie is now a university city. This is a significant advancement for the Burnie municipality and the biggest building project for 70-80 years,” he said.
The upper level of the new campus, a partnership of UTAS, the local council and the federal and state governments, is now being installed.
Moving students to West Park from Mooreville Road is expected to create vibrancy in Burnie’s CBD and pave the way for increased community and industry partnerships.
The West Park campus forms part of the Northern Transformation Program, that also encompasses a new campus at Inveresk in Launceston and is expected to be completed by the middle of next year.
Minister for State Growth Michael Ferguson said the new campus would attract more young Tasmanians to pursue tertiary education and gain the skills and qualifications needed for a fulfilling career.
UTAS vice-chancellor Rufus Black said the West Park campus would help the institution realise its mission of being a university for Tasmania. “It will improve access to education, ensure equity for regional students, and offer distinctive learning experiences that prepare and position them to make positive contributions to Tasmania, and from Tasmania to the world,” Professor Black said.
Features of the campus include contemporary teaching and research facilities, informal spaces for student and community activities, a central courtyard and a sustainable green roof.
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