Today’s announcement that and architect has been appointed to deliver Tamworth’s first ever university campus will come as welcome news to a community who are excited to see the dream of accessing a university education closer to home become a reality.

Award winning architectural firm Architectus has been appointed to lead the design of the University of New England’s Tamworth Central Campus while Tamworth-based firm Hill Lochart Architects will provide site inspection assistance during construction.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said this was an exciting next step after the NSW Government’s funding commitment of $26.6 million was locked away last year.

“We have delivered on our commitment to provide the funding necessary to make the Tamworth University dream a reality,” Mr Anderson said.

“Now with UNE appointing an architect, our community can expect to see good progress very soon.

“The community and stakeholders like the Tamworth University Working Group can expect to have input, helping design a university campus that meets the expectation of the community.

“This is an exciting project, not only because it will create several job opportunities in Tamworth, but it will also mean our kids no longer have to leave the city to get a university education on campus.

“I know there are many young people in our communities who want to stick around and build a life in our region, but are hampered by the lack of access to a university education in the city.

“That problem will soon be solved. Thank you to UNE for continuing to drive their commitment in our region and congratulations to the Tamworth University Working Group who have played an integral role in moving this project forward.”

UNE anticipates that initial images of the building will be available after the master planning and concept design phase is complete later this year. Construction is expected to commence in mid-2024.