Deal links town and gown

Australia’s national university and its national capital are to become closer under a new land deal.

Signed in December, a Heads of Agreement between the ACT Government and ANU will pave the way for the creation of a modern education, research, accommodation and commercial precinct in City West.

“This agreement gives ANU vital room to grow and by integrating the campus with the heart of Canberra, it will bring Australia's leading university closer to the Australian people,” said ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Chubb.

“It will create new research, business and social opportunities for the University, our neighbours in Canberra and the wider Australian community.”

The agreement is expected to ensure that the progressive development of vacant land on the city fringe of the University campus is consistent with the interests of ANU, the community, business and the ACT Government, which has welcomed the deal.

"There can be no denying that in terms of business, the ANU is amongst the biggest in our city,” said ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope.

“It’s a big business, a big employer and a big contributor — and clearly it’s only going to get bigger.

“The agreement also delivers a major coup for Canberra’s knowledge-based industries and future and existing intellectual property,” he added.

In all, seven areas of vacant land are covered by the agreement and will be developed by the University over the next 10 years.

Facilities and Services Director, Mr Warwick Williams has been appointed to spearhead planning for the site and will consult with senior University staff about opportunities presented by the deal.