The University of Queensland is set to start work on the development of two new student recreational complexes at the St Lucia campus.

UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Høj said the developments were part of UQ’s commitment to enhance student experiences by upgrading campus facilities and services.

“The University is working hand-in-hand with the student body and will invest substantially to meet the needs of students in a global top-50 university,” Professor Høj said.

“This is essential if UQ is to continue to provide a first-class learning environment for Queensland students, and to maintain our contribution to the state’s economy by attracting students from interstate and overseas.”

A new food court to replace the existing Physiol refectory is due to open in semester one next year, and a redevelopment of the former Staff House (building 41) will provide a new home for the Red Room and other student facilities toward the end of 2019.

UQ Union President Jeremy Lwin said work to develop the two complexes followed the signing of a new funding and services agreement after extensive negotiations between UQ and the union.

“The funding services agreement  expands the resources the student union has to improve the student experience over the next six years as well as securing its sustainability,” Mr Lwin said.

“This is good news for all UQ students as it will facilitate the provision of better facilities and support services, as well as enhance the on-campus experience and support for clubs, societies and diversity groups.”

He said UQU was continuing to consult with the University on detailed design of the new student leisure and services complex, but it would include indoor and outdoor dining, along with function, conference and performance spaces.

The facilities will overlook the Natural Amphitheatre, which will be upgraded to include an outdoor stage with permanent audio and lighting equipment and capacity for a large audience.

The new centre on the Physiol site will benefit students and staff and comprise a food court with seven outlets, a self-service food preparation kitchen with microwaves, more indoor and outdoor seating, and improved access for people of all abilities.

Physiol will close at the end of October, and a range of temporary food outlets will be located in Mansfield Place during the six-month construction program.

Professor Høj said the two projects would help ensure a smooth transition if a proposal to redevelop the Student Hub at the eastern entrance to the campus is approved in the second half of next year.

More information is available from the UQ Property and Facilities website.

Media: UQ Communications, communications@uq.edu.au, +61 7 3365 1130.