North Terrace greening begins

By early 2005, this is what the front of our North Terrace Campus will look like.

The University of Adelaide is embarking on a significant new look to the frontage of the campus.

The upgrade will include more greenery and places where staff, students and members of the public can relax and enjoy the atmosphere, surrounded by some of South Australia's finest heritage buildings.

Work has already begun on the upgrade, which feeds into and complements the overall North Terrace Redevelopment Project.

According to Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha, the new look of the campus's North Terrace frontage reinforces the values and visions of the institution through design and the creation of a pedestrian friendly environment.

"The City of Adelaide Development Plan encourages the provision of open space, which is landscaped, pedestrian-friendly and provides a high amenity to users," Professor McWha said.

A document titled the Desired Future Character Statement of the University/Hospital Precinct outlines open spaces as being important in developing the character of the precinct.

Professor McWha said the character statement called for the redevelopment of the university forecourt (predominantly the area occupied by Goodman Crescent and its surrounding roads and walkways) in providing visibility and access to all buildings within the precinct.

Three State Heritage buildings - Bonython Hall, the Elder Conservatorium and the Mitchell Building - dominate the forecourt of the university.

"In redesigning the forecourt, the value and character of the heritage buildings have been carefully considered," Professor McWha said.

"Limestone and sandstone colours have been proposed for the paving materials, with different finishing techniques to complement the heritage buildings and identifying areas allowing frequent vehicle use."

The proposed landscaping elements to the redevelopment strengthen and enforce the heritage character and importance of the buildings, he said.

"The choice of trees opens up the view of the buildings from North Terrace. In addition, the various understorey plantings chosen will not be over 800mm high and will therefore not screen the heritage buildings from view."

The new look to the front of North Terrace will include more greenery and people-friendly areas than ever before.

Work on the upgrade is expected to be completed by March 2005.

Story by Howard Salkow