Campus upgrade reinforces Uni's values and visions

Monday, 6 September 2004

The current upgrade to the frontage of the University of Adelaide's North Terrace Campus feeds into and complements the overall North Terrace Redevelopment Project.

And according to University Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha, the upgrade reinforces the values and visions of the institution through design and the creation of a pedestrian friendly environment.

"The City of Adelaide Development Plan encourages the provision of open space, which is landscaped, pedestrian-friendly and provides a high amenity to users," Professor McWha says.

"The Desired Future Character Statement of the University/Hospital Precinct enforces the importance of open spaces in developing the character of the precinct."

Professor McWha says the character statement called for the redevelopment of the University forecourt in providing visibility and access to all buildings within the precinct.

Three State Heritage buildings - Bonython Hall, the Elder Conservatorium and the Mitchell Building - dominate the forecourt of the University.

"In redesigning the forecourt, the value and character of the Heritage buildings have been carefully considered," Professor McWha says.

"Limestone and sandstone colours have been proposed for the paving materials, with different finishing techniques to complement the Heritage buildings and identifying areas allowing frequent vehicle use."

The proposed landscaping elements to the redevelopment strengthen and enforce the Heritage character and importance of the buildings.

"The choice of trees opens up the view of the buildings from North Terrace. In addition, the various understorey plantings chosen will not be over 800mm high and will therefore not screen the Heritage buildings from view," Professor McWha says.

Work on the upgrade is expected to be complete by March 2005.

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