THE University of Adelaide and Playford Council have remained coy over reports of a possible new campus in the North.
Both parties last week confirmed an Indaily report which revealed they were in talks to build a satellite campus somewhere in the Playford Council area.
It was reported the campus would be similar to, and be in competition with, the University of South Australia’s own satellite campus at Mawson Lakes.
In a statement to The Bunyip, Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty said the university would make decisions about the size and focus of the campus.
“The University of Adelaide is the decision maker about programs, courses, locations, size of their investments and its services,” he said.
“The City of Playford is keen to see greater university access by residents and a stronger presence in the Playford community.”
Mr Docherty added the council “has had, and is open to having discussions with universities” in a bid to get their presence in Playford.
“The City of Playford is uniquely positioned for the expansion of the university sector in greater Adelaide and holds a unique and strategic geographic position,” he said.
“We are the centre of the northern suburbs, we serve fast growing communities and we house state significant industries in health, defence, horticulture and advance manufacturing.
“Playford is close to Gawler and surrounds and not far from the mid north farming communities.”
The University of Adelaide already has one satellite campus in the North, with the Roseworthy campus under its control since 1991.
A University of Adelaide spokesperson confirmed talks with Playford Council, but did not disclose any information on the possible location or size of the proposed campus.
“The University of Adelaide and the City of Playford are exploring ways of increasing access to higher education for residents in the Playford region. Early discussions have been positive but are at an early stage,” the spokesperson said.
“The University will continue to work with the City of Playford on this initiative.”