- Public infrastructure developer Plenary has been named as the preferred partner
- Has a range of expertise in delivering large complex project
- The development will include a Research and Innovation Precinct
La Trobe University has announced its preferred master development partner for its ambitious redevelopment.
Plenary, a public infrastructure investor, developer and manager, has been chosen to deliver the $5 billion University City of the Future Plan which will see the 235-hectare Bundoora campus transformed into a vibrant city.
The development will include a Research and Innovation Precinct, world-class sporting and sports research facilities, a major health and wellbeing hub and new commercial, retail and residential developments.
La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar AO noted that Plenary has extensive experience in leading a range of complex, large-scale projects along with sharing the university’s cultural values.
“Plenary is a highly reputable global company that is aligned with the University on environmental sustainability, and providing long-term social and economic benefit to communities,” Professor Dewar said.
“We’re excited to be partnering with the Plenary team to accelerate this ambitious plan, bringing innumerable benefits to our staff and students, as well as industry, partners and the wider community.”
Disrupting the delivery of education
Mary Lacson, La Trobe Director of Property and Economic Development, said the partnership will allow for the university to deliver the innovative project which will disrupt how tertiary institutions deliver education and research.
“Our main goal is to develop a multi-purpose, sustainable and mixed-use community – and position La Trobe as a pioneering and transformative University, and the partner of choice for industry and academia,” Ms Lacson said.
David Lamming, Plenary Chief Executive, said the project will redefine how university precincts are designed, developed and delivered.
“It will help to cement La Trobe as a global University of choice for students and staff, increase engagement with government, industry and the community, and showcase it as a sustainability exemplar,” he said.
“Our experience in the formation of long-term partnerships to deliver complex projects here and overseas make us ideally placed to perform the role of development partner, and we look forward to delivering on the exciting vision for the University City of the Future.”
