Much Needed Redevelopments Approved

Otago Polytechnic Students Association PRESS RELEASE 22/04/08

Much Needed Redevelopments Approved

Otago Polytechnic Students' Association is today singing the praises of the government for providing a mass cash injection to the Polytechnic for much needed redevelopments on its Dunedin campus

The funding valued at $5.985 million will be used to upgrade and relocate areas of the Polytechnic campus. Facilities include the relocation of the hospitality school, upgrades for the current Student Centre cafeteria and restaurant, as well as new Art annex building.

Plans for the relocation of the entire hospitality school are a large part of the redevelopment, from the practical production kitchens, Mellors training restaurant, to Cafe Brie barista training facilities.

"Students will have be able to learn to work in new and up to date kitchens and café training area's as well as being able to learn to cope with the stress of the real hospitality environment" says OPSA Co-President Ryan Ward.

"This will also give students a real hub that is both comfortable to be in, as well as an excellent learning environment for the students who study hospitality." said Mr Ward.

Mr Ward is confident that the Polytechnic has considered all of the effects that this will have on the students learning at forth street.

The Redevelopments will commence in August of this year and should have little effect on the students throughout the construction period.

"The Polytechnic has really taken the time to plan contingencies to avoid disruption for the students on campus." Mr Ward said.

ENDS