Griffith University has purchased the first large development site within the 200-hectare former athletes’ village used for the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.
The sale to Griffith University marks the next development phase of the Health and Knowledge Precinct, with the site to become home to the University’s Advanced Design Manufacturing & Prototyping (ADaPT) building.
The 4365sq m site is the first of 16 development sites to be sold.
Griffith University plans to commence construction of the $80 million facility in early 2020.
“Griffith sees our ADaPT investment as a lighthouse development for the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct to attract industry partnerships from around the globe,” Griffith vice chancellor professor Carolyn Evans said.
Related: Gold Coast Athletes’ Village Get New Name, Hits the Market
The Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct is a 10- to 15-year project which state development minister Cameron Dick says will contribute $3 billion to Queensland’s economy.
“The facility will use a range of advanced technologies to support the rapid development of prototypes and products for a variety of industries, including biomedical applications,” he said.
Related: First Look: 140 Hectares Transformed In Gold Coast ‘Ocean Park’ Plan
Economic Development Queensland is working on a range of initiatives, including “Cohort”, which provides space for incubators and start-up businesses, along with co-working spaces.
“Buildings formerly used by Commonwealth Games athletes, including a hair salon, convenience store and police station, are now being fitted out for Cohort, and we expect the space to open by mid-2019,” Dick said.
