The University of Otago Council has approved plans for the first of its buildings adjacent to the Forsyth Barr Stadium at University Plaza.

The flagship building has been designed by the well known architectural firm, Warren and Mahoney, to provide facilities for the University's Foundation Studies programme and for the Unipol Gymnasium. The building will provide the west wall of the stadium, and will open on to the University Plaza. In addition to teaching and learning facilities and the gymnasium and recreation space, there will be a physiotherapy clinic and a caf open to the public as well as students. Construction is planned to begin in May 2010, with completion by August 2011.

Releasing the design, Vice-Chancellor Professor David Skegg said the new building and the adjoining University Plaza will be wonderful assets for both the University and the community. "The architects have done an excellent job in accommodating our academic and recreational requirements in a striking building. The building has an academic presence and will be faced in Oamaru stone."

The facilities for Foundation Studies will provide for modern methods of teaching and learning, with breakout spaces and informal learning areas. The Unipol facilities will include two gymnasiums and two cardio weights areas, as well as a large multi-purpose space where team sports can take place.

"The University of Otago will be very fortunate to have a major learning and recreational facility next to a world-class covered stadium," said Professor Skegg.