Carpark, SportsHub on track for mid-2016 opening

Construction is racing ahead on St Lucia’s new SportsHub and 500-bay underground car park, adjacent to the UQ Centre.

The project will provide significant relief to casual short-term car parking pressure on campus, said Property and Facilities Deputy Director Geoff Dennis.

“The design incorporates sustainability features such as rainwater harvesting, a Bike Box and electric vehicle charging,” Mr Dennis said.

“The new Bike Box will have space for about 300 bicycles, and is conveniently near the Green Bridge, making it even easier for commuters to ride to work.”

The $25 million project – due for completion in mid-2016 – is being funded by increases in UQ parking fees.

The first round of parking price rises was introduced on 1 January this year; the second round increases will apply from 1 January 2016, when permit and casual fees will rise by 50 cents or $1 a day, depending on the zone.

A full list of the UQ parking charges that will apply from 1 January 2016 is here.

Staff, students and other interested parties are welcome to comment on parking price rises by emailing parking.feedback@uq.edu.au.

Previously, UQ parking fees had not risen since 2010.

Even after the 2015/16 price adjustments, UQ parking fees will continue to compare favourably with rates charged at other Brisbane universities, and with Brisbane commercial provider rates.

UQ Sport CEO Bryan Pryde said the two new elevated fields would benefit the UQ community as well as the local community around St Lucia.

“High-quality synthetic turf will be laid over shock pads to reduce injury, and field quality will be consistent,” Mr Pryde said.

“Synthetic turf fields are more durable than grass, so there are no capacity issues. This means we can use the artificial fields more, and reduce the impact on our grass fields, improving sports facilities right across campus.”

Contact: Fiona Cameron, UQ Communications, +61 7 3346 7086, f.cameron2@uq.edu.au