La Trobe University has announced a preferred Master Development Partner to realise its ambitious plan to transform Melbourne’s north.
The University’s preferred partner – public infrastructure investor, developer and manager, Plenary – will accelerate the $5 billion University City of the Future Plan, transforming its 235-hectare Bundoora campus into a vibrant city.
The University City of the Future will reimagine the campus experience and include a dynamic Research and Innovation Precinct, world class sporting and sports research facilities, a major health and wellbeing hub and exciting new commercial, retail and residential developments.
La Trobe Director Property and Economic Development, Mary Lacson, said the partnership with Plenary will enable the University to deliver a truly innovative project that will revolutionise how Universities deliver education and research, while building a stronger, more resilient society.
“Our main goal is to develop a multi-purpose, sustainable and mixed-use community – and position La Trobe as a pioneering and transformative University, and the partner of choice for industry and academia,” Ms Lacson said.
Plenary Chief Executive David Lamming said the project will redefine how university precincts in Australia and abroad are designed, developed and delivered.
“It will help to cement La Trobe as a global University of choice for students and staff, increase engagement with government, industry and the community, and showcase it as a sustainability exemplar.
“We look forward to delivering on the exciting vision for the University City of the Future,” Mr Lamming said.
The University City of the Future transformation has already started with:
- A world-class Sports Park, open for teaching, research, community participation and elite sport – and soon-to-be home of the Australian women’s national soccer team, the Matildas
- A new 624-bed modern and sustainable North and South Apartments for students
- A commitment to enhancing and protecting La Trobe’s biodiverse waterway, Nangak Tamboree
- A Research and Innovation Precinct ecosystem that connects businesses with research, students and infrastructure.