Minister tours on-track UTAS Inveresk campus site

The $304 million redevelopment of the University of Tasmania’s Inveresk Campus is on track for delivery by 2024.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King joined City of Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten and University Vice-Chancellor Professor Rufus Black on site today to inspect progress on the city-shaping project.

Recent steps forward include opening of the Urban Realm activitiy space and community edible gardens.

The centrepiece of the $570 million partnership, the project involves the relocation and redevelopment of the University’s main Launceston campus from Newnham to Inveresk next to the Central Business District.

Minister King also inspected the new library and student experience building, which is the first of three major new buildings coming to life in the Inveresk Precinct. It is located in the heart of the University’s Inveresk development and is open and accessible to students, staff and the community.

The other two new buildings – the River’s Edge Building (due for completion early 2023) and the Willis Street Building (due for completion at the end of 2023) – are also well underway.

The project will also see two existing buildings undergo extensive refurbishment and updating as well as other landscaping and redevelopment works.

The library was designed by John Wardle Architects and supported by more than 150 individuals involved in the co-design process providing feedback on the vision for Inveresk, building design and functionality.

Comments attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“It is fantastic to see first-hand the great progress being made toward redeveloping the CBD-located campus.

“This project will ensure all members of the community – not just students – can benefit from the facilities.”

Comments attributable to Tasmanian Minister for State Development, Construction and Housing Guy Barnett:

“This development will provide a centrally located and accessible campus that will create a vibrant hub close to the city centre.

“This provides a historic opportunity to design a modern fit-for-purpose campus, lift educational attainment and revitalise the Launceston region.”

“Projects like this one boost Tasmania’s growth, through job-creating investment into infrastructure for future generations.”

Comments attributable to Mayor of City of Launceston Albert van Zetten:

“This is an exciting time for Launceston, with the capacity to grow student numbers to an initial target of 10,000 students at the new campus by 2032.

“This is an investment in increased student retention rates, strengthened industry engagement and boosting the region’s economy creating jobs.”

Comments attributable to University of Tasmania Vice Chancellor Rufus Black:

“This campus redevelopment is a major investment in education and research in the North that will support outstanding teaching and learning for generations of Tasmanian students.

“The new campus will encourage community interaction through shared facilities, recreation areas and community spaces, and progress continues apace toward realising this vision.”