Throughout 2017, we shared news of projects occurring around campus. Here’s a quick recap of the ongoing works and a celebration of ones that have been completed.

Current projects

Arts Precinct

Work on an exciting new Arts Precinct kicked off in late 2017 and continues this year. When complete, the transformational project for the Faculty of Arts will consolidate 10 of 12 departments into a precinct that showcases the unique nature and focus of each department. It includes the renewal of current buildings and the addition of a new 4800xm2 building consisting of office and showcase spaces as well as a consolidated museum facility. It is scheduled for reopening in mid-2020.

Macquarie Law School

The University will develop a new, purpose-built Law School on campus with construction due to start in early 2020 and be completed in 2022. The building will be named after former Macquarie Chancellor, The Hon Michael Kirby, in recognition of the contribution he has made to the University and will “provide unparalleled facilities for contemporary modes of learning and teaching,” according to Professor S Bruce Dowton, Macquarie Vice-Chancellor and President.

BD Public Realm

In December, a portion of Research Park Drive was closed in preparation for works to the public realm around the Becton-Dickinson (BD) Building located at 4 Research Park Drive. The works, that are expected to take eight months to complete, include the re-alignment of Innovation Road from College Creek to the rear of the BD Building, the conversion of Research Park Drive to a paved and landscaped ‘shared zone’, and the re-configurement of the BD Building car park access.

Biosciences

The University is investing in a new Biosciences facility to support invertebrate-based research into biosecurity. Specifically, the building will address the urgent needs to support the University’s involvement in developing the ‘Sterile Insect Technique’ and aligned approaches as an environmentally sensitive means of defending Australia’s horticultural industries. The new Biosciences building will also provide new laboratory and administration space for the Department of Biological Sciences. Work is scheduled to be complete in the third quarter of this year.

Completed projects

Macquarie University Incubator

Officially opened in September 2017, this innovative new building on campus was designed specifically for students, researchers, staff, small-medium sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurs and start-ups who are working on research or an idea that can be commercialised. Primarily made of laminated timber, the building sits lightly on the ground and minimally impacts the earth and soil below it. It also incorporates pavilions that are naturally ventilated and uses the first air conditioning of its kind in Australia.

Campus Common

Opened in November 2017, the Campus Common is the new temporary food, beverage and social precinct on campus for staff, students and visitors to enjoy. An exciting mix of retailers joined the space, including retailers previously located in the Campus Hub such as Ubar. Food and beverage offerings will transition back to the Central Courtyard area once that project is completed.

Macquarie Active Zone Experience (MAZE)

A new hub for student clubs and societies, as well as the new home of the Campus Engagement team, Accommodation Office and Co-op bookstore, opened in October 2017. The purpose-built space on Level 3 of 18 Wally’s Walk – named MAZE by student focus groups – features multiple larger areas with facilities that student groups can book to facilitate teamwork and partnerships as well as a variety of smaller meeting rooms. The space acts as an extension of MUSE on Levels 1 and 2.

—

We’ll continue to keep you updated throughout the year as projects progress. For questions, email campusdevelopment@mq.edu.au.