Footscray could become Australia’s first capital city ‘university town’ under an ambitious plan to revitalise the suburb.
Victoria University and Maribyrnong council yesterday signed a
memorandum of understanding to work together to continue the
rejuvenation of Footscray.
Under the plan, the university will move more of its amenities,
including a bookshop, learning space and coffee shop, into central
Footscray. Arts and sports precincts have also been flagged.
University vice-chancellor Professor Peter Dawkins said the
partnership would bring about urban, economic and social renewal in
Footscray and Melbourne’s west.
“We have two campuses in Footscray and significant partnerships
with Footscray icons such as the Western Bulldogs, Western Hospital and
Footscray Community Arts Centre,” he said.
“While these icons, and others, encircle Footscray, there’s a
significant gap in the heart of the central business district.’’ The aim
is to better integrate the university and its 20,000 students into the
fabric of Footscray.
Council chief executive Vince Haining said VU would extend its
Footscray Park campus across Ballarat Road to bring it closer to the
centre of Footscray.
“Footscray is renowned across Melbourne as an edgy, art-focused
suburb that offers authentic dining and cultural experiences, and
becoming a ‘university town’ will further enhance its reputation as an
up-and-coming place to work, study and invest in,” he said.
The first university downtown location will be established by the start of next year.
Expansion over the next decade will include an increase in student
accommodation, visual and performing arts spaces and a sports precinct
with elite facilities.
The transformation is expected to create more jobs and attract further investment in the area.
