We are delighted to post a recent news article from the VC at Charles Darwin University:

I want to ensure that you are regularly updated on the progress of construction associated with the Education and Community Precinct (ECP), CDU’s new city campus. This is the largest construction project underway in Darwin’s CBD, and one that will transform the city for decades to come.

Construction of the ECP has moved ahead in leaps and bounds, and I’m thrilled with how rapidly works are progressing on site. To date more than 8,216m3 of concrete and 86,450 hours of on-site labour have gone into the build. Concrete slabs have been poured for both basements and the first two levels, with formwork including lift cores and stairwells progressing to level three and scaffolding reaching level four. Both tower cranes and the concrete tower pump are now in operation. This really is a project which encompasses the broader community, so engagement with local business and Indigenous employment play an integral role in the overall success of the project. I am pleased to advise that since construction commenced we have been able to award 88% of the work to local construction companies and 14.62% of the workforce on the project are First Nations peoples.

Ongoing works to complete the nine-level structure include installation of the external façade, the building’s fit out, and landscaping works are expected to be completed in early 2024. So while we have a little way to go it is great to see construction progressing.

Throughout the project design and construction phase the heritage listed boab tree has been at the fore and as such will be the centrepiece of a vibrant public realm which will offer a range of outdoor spaces created for the broader community to enjoy all year round. The new ECP will also deliver state-of-the art teaching and research facilities, an art gallery, a purpose-built home for the Northern Territory Library as well as more than 230 underground car parks. Following completion in early 2024, it is planned that staff and students within disciplines such as Business, Law, Indigenous Futures, Humanities, Creative Arts and IT will be relocated to the new city campus along with the University’s International College and the CDU Art Gallery.

As you can see, excitement is building in Darwin about this fabulous project – one that CI has been fundamental in conceiving and delivering.