Progress is being made!
You read the headline, now let us confirm the glorious news.
Construction has officially commenced on the long-awaited University of Newcastle’s brand new Central Coast campus, located in the heart of the Gosford CBD.
The project’s construction phase officially commenced yesterday (Monday, December 4, 2023), marking a major milestone in providing improved access to tertiary education for people living on the Central Coast according to The University of Newcastle’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO.
“Together with our funding partners, we had a vision almost five years ago to create a contemporary campus in the heart of Gosford. I’m pleased that we have taken the next step today to realise our vision and mark the start of construction of our new state-of-the-art campus,” Professor Zelinsky said.
Programs offered on the new Central Coast campus are expected to include degrees in business with expanded majors, education, social work, and pathway programs, all of which Professor Zelinsky is hoping will bolster the region.
“Our Campus will provide a new place for people to study and build their skills, preparing work-ready graduates to help meet the changing needs of the Central Coast. It will also generate new jobs, help to bolster the region’s workforce, and attract more significant investment back to the community.”
Initial site construction activities that will be conducted before the end of 2023 will include site establishment, archaeological investigations, demolition and excavation.
Professor Zelinsky projects the campus will open shortly.
“Over the next 18 months we look forward to working closely with our project team and local contractors to strengthen our commitment to the Central Coast community, before we officially open the campus doors to students in 2025.”
State Minister for the Central Coast Hon David Harris highlighted the opportunities the brand new campus will bring for local residents.
“We are proud to make this investment in the future of the people of the Central Coast. Access to education is a great equaliser, and will bring new opportunities for today’s school children and workers.
“This campus, located close to the Clinical School, the Hospital, local businesses and TAFE, is bringing higher education into the heart of a revitalised Gosford town centre.”
The Mann Street campus is located on the former Mitre 10 site, occupying over 4,500 square metres across four levels.
The University of Newcastle estimates the construction new Gosford campus could create up to 140 annual full time equivalent jobs over the next two years.
The university is also working closely with the First Nations Working Group on building and design features, as well as artwork and language opportunities that will feature in the building.
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Images: University of Newcastle / Supplied
By Bek Lougher
