Two Heritage Buildings re-open due to Partnership

Plans to re-open two heritage buildings on Taupo Quay for educational and community use are taking shape in a partnership approach between Whanganui UCOL and the Wanganui District Council.

To reflect the sharing of spaces and facilities, a new arrangement has been agreed that reflects the shared commitment and intent. This involves the Council purchasing the buildings on Taupo Quay from UCOL for $600,000 and then leasing back areas to be occupied for UCOL’s arts and design courses. The purchase price for the buildings will come from the Council’s City Endowment Fund which forms part of a 1881 property grant from the Crown for the purposes of aiding funds of the then Borough of Wanganui. The remaining space will be available for community use. UCOL is also investing about $700,000 to bring the proposed mixed use arts and design centre up to modern standards.

The buildings will provide a stunning home for the new Bachelor of Design and Arts, the Whanganui School of Design and offer a community asset in the riverfront precinct.

Mayor Annette Main said she was delighted that the heritage buildings would reopen and be used. “The riverfront area is becoming increasingly vibrant and it will be wonderful to see these buildings back in use, especially with the new opportunity for the community to make the most of some of the space. I look forward to seeing how the buildings will be used in the future to bring together our heritage with exciting new ideas.”

Plans include gallery space, youth programmes, and community use all aimed at creating a more vibrant, collaborative and community-inclusive campus, where community expertise and education comes together.

“The layout and design of the shared spaces and how to make the most of these lovely grand buildings have taken some thought and planning,” said Darryl Purdy, UCOL Chief Financial Officer.

“It’s an exciting development - we think students, staff and the community will all benefit from the learning spaces that overlook Taupo Quay. Combined with the proposed new Design and Arts degree and those programmes offered in conjunction with the Open Polytechnic, it’s going to be an exciting new year.”

Sharing the campus with the community was a recommendation from the Joint Community Taskforce, and it is coming to life as local tradespeople descend onto the site.

The long term aim is to build a stronger, self-sustaining future for tertiary education in the city.

ENDS

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