The Vice-Chancellor of Charles Darwin University today announced that the University would proceed with planning for constructing short term staff and student accommodation and a residential development at its Palmerston campus.
Pending final approval from the University’s Council, CDU will shortly commence the further detailed planning required ahead of the actual release. The release of land for sale is hoped to commence in 2010.
Professor Barney Glover said the University was turning some of its land asset into an educational asset for the future of CDU and the Palmerston community.
“Palmerston is a substantial campus and is part of the University’s endowment for the future,” he said.
“The resources resulting from this land release will be invested for the future growth of CDU and as well as long-term integration of the University and the Palmerston community.”
The residential development, which could see up to 500 new housing lots developed, was decided upon following a detailed feasibility study and geotechnical survey of the 50ha block which confirmed its sustainability for housing.
The proposal also includes construction of short term accommodation for staff and students relocating to the NT or on temporary assignment.
As part of the development a parcel of University land will be donated to allow for the construction of a $33 million sporting complex by the Northern Territory Government.
Professor Glover said the international-standard sporting facility would be built over four years and would provide a valuable resource for the Palmerston community and for CDU.
“This is a unique opportunity for Palmerston and the University to grow together and invest in the future of the city and generations of students to come,” he said.