Preparation for the Newcastle Education Campus (NEC) is forging ahead, with the business case seeking government approval to proceed with the project now submitted to NSW Treasury.
Master-planning for NEC, on the main Newcastle High School site, has been completed and includes upgrades to the existing location and expanded facilities suitable for shared use with the community.
Additionally, space is being allocated for a future new primary school, which will be subject to enrolment demand.
NSW Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said she was delighted that the Newcastle Education Campus had reached this milestone.
“Students are at the centre of the decision-making process regarding the NEC,” she explained.
“It’s clear the upgraded school will provide wonderful facilities that will benefit the local community now and for years to come.
“Procurement of key project consultants including architects, building engineers, planners and heritage consultants is underway.”
The NSW Government is investing $7.9 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 215 new and upgraded schools to support communities across the state.
“This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW,” Ms Mitchell said.
“And, I’m proud of that achievement.
“We are working hard to provide a unique new school with modern facilities designed specifically for this [Newcastle] community.”
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said that the NEC would be an asset to the Newcastle community.
“This is going to be a great project for the City that will provide high-quality education facilities for students and teachers,” he stated.
“The preferred option in the business case includes new flexible learning spaces to support future student enrolment growth, a new hall and library, new science laboratories, kitchens, canteen and pupil facilities and new support class facilities.”
The project is continuing with the ongoing development of the design in consultation with representatives from the Department of Education and Newcastle High School, architects, planners and design professionals.
However, it is subject to business case approval.
For more information about the project, visit www.schoolinfrastructure.nsw.gov.au and search Newcastle Education Campus.
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
