ECU Mt Lawley Campus Set for Major Redevelopment into Housing and Creative Hub
Edith Cowan University's (ECU) former Mt Lawley campus is poised for a significant transformation, with plans to develop up to 1100 homes and establish a creative industry hub, though the project is not expected to commence until 2030. This announcement follows the university's complete relocation to its new CBD campus, leaving the Mt Lawley grounds vacant and set to be transferred to government control by the end of 2026.
Housing and Infrastructure Plans Unveiled
On Tuesday, Housing Minister John Carey revealed that sections of the campus will be demolished to make way for residential units, while certain existing structures will be preserved to form a creative hub. The housing component is projected to include between 900 and 1100 homes, featuring a mix of terraced houses and higher-density arrangements. A portion of these dwellings will be designated as social and affordable housing, although specific percentages have not been disclosed.
Minister Carey emphasized that this is a long-term initiative, with homes not anticipated to become available until 2030. He stated, "This is a long-term project so obviously we have a lot of renewal programs under way, but you've got to start. I do believe that the timeframe is a reasonable one, it does reflect the potential challenges on the site. We're not getting this site until the end of the year, so I think 2030 is a reasonable projection but it will go beyond that. I need to make it very clear, this is a 10 to 15-year renewal program."
In addition to housing, the redevelopment will incorporate a new primary school and public open spaces, which will account for 15 percent of the overall design. The student accommodation area is also under consideration for conversion into broader housing options.
Creative Hub to Leverage Existing Facilities
The creative hub will repurpose key buildings such as the old WAAPA building, administration building, and library. By utilizing existing rehearsal rooms and facilities, the space aims to foster collaboration among creative industries, with a particular focus on performance and dance. The government will retain ownership of these buildings and lease spaces to private companies and not-for-profit organizations.
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk expressed optimism about the hub's potential but noted that further assessment is required to ensure upgrades are cost-effective and suitable. She commented, "What we'll work through over the next 12 months is what the demand looks like and how we make sure that any sort of refurbishments or improvements we need to make, are fit for purpose. We do get feedback that particularly with rehearsal and performance space, for dance in particular, you need a certain quality of facilities, and we have those here."
This redevelopment represents a strategic move to address housing needs while promoting cultural and economic growth in the region, aligning with broader urban renewal efforts.
