UQ Ipswich on track for $9.5 million expansion

UQ Ipswich is set to expand following the announcement of another $3 million in Federal funding in 2003 to boost $2.3 million already committed for 2002.

Planning is about to begin for Stage Three, a purpose-built Library and Resource Centre at the geographic heart of the ultra-modern Ipswich campus, opened just three years ago.

Completion of the $9.5 million project is expected by early 2003, in time for the academic year. The work will also provide opportunities to assess future use of unrestored heritage buildings on campus
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The Library, presently located in a heritage building refurbished as part of Stage One, will be ready to occupy new quarters, according to Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International and Development) Professor Trevor Grigg.

"The Library is fast evolving from a resource designed for fewer than 2000 students to a facility needing more space," he said.

"This year we'll have about 500 new first-year students on the Ipswich campus as well as second and third-year undergraduates and a number of postgraduates.

"Teaching and learning concepts are constantly changing and Stage Three is an excellent opportunity to expand in line with new technology and the evolving needs of everyone who uses this campus."

A user brief for Stage Three will be prepared in consultation with key stakeholders including the Library, the Tertiary Educational Development Institute, Academic Administration and Executive Deans of faculties operating on campus.

Consultants will then be appointed to design and document the project ready for tender late this year [2001].

For more information, contact Professor Trevor Grigg (telephone 3365 7366) or Moya Pennell, UQ Communications (telephone 3365 2846).