University Appoints Architects for Stadium Project

The University of Otago has appointed architects for the first phase of its building programme to form part of the Forsyth Barr Stadium at University Plaza.
The architects appointed are the prominent New Zealand firm, Warren and Mahoney. They will be assisted by the Dunedin firm, McCoy and Wixon, who have designed several buildings on the University campus.
The University buildings will face on to Anzac Avenue, on the western side of the stadium site. They will open on to the urban space to be known as the University Plaza. The first stage of the University complex will include a gymnasium and recreation space, a physiotherapy clinic, teaching and learning space for the Foundation Studies programme, and a cafeteria.
Announcing the appointment, Vice-Chancellor Professor David Skegg said that the University is delighted to be working with outstanding architects in developing what should be an iconic building for the campus.
"While this new complex will free up space that is urgently needed under our critical space plan, it will also create an important campus hub where students and citizens can mix," Professor Skegg explained, adding âthe experts developing our Campus Master Plan see this development as crucial in providing a hub on the banks of the Water of Leith, which runs like a thread through the campus."
The University estimates that its new facilities will attract about 430,000 visits annually.
Construction of these University buildings will start once the realignment of State Highway 88 away from Anzac Avenue has been confirmed.
The second stage of the building programme is likely to provide expanded facilities for the Student Health Services, together with research facilities for the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Research Unit.