Monday, 31 July 2017
MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has today assured the Armidale community that the CB Newling Centre (Old Teachers College) in Armidale will remain open, despite ongoing discussion about who may take on stewardship of the iconic building and property.
“The Old Teachers College is a significant part of Armidale’s history and it will remain an important institution well into the future,” Mr Marshall said.
“I can appreciate the community’s apprehension, given the lengthy discussions about who will next take over the reins of managing the building; however the NSW Government will ensure it will continue to be looked after.”
The University of New England announced in February that it no longer wished to manage the building, which it has held since it merged with another tertiary education provider in 1989. Since 1995, it has looked after the building as a corporate trust manager.
“While UNE has indicated that it no longer wishes to manage the Old Teachers College, it has not yet formally begun the process of relinquishing their trust management,” Mr Marshall said.
“I want to make it clear, UNE is still managing the building and property and not formally indicated if it is walking away and when.
“If UNE does walk away I have sought and received assurances that NSW Crown Lands will step in and fill the gap. Crown Lands will manage and look after the property with no disruption to current tenants.
“Crown Lands will then test the market by calling publicly for expressions of interest for a new trust manager to take on the property.
“The Armidale Teacher’s College’s vaulted halls and beautiful grounds have played an important role in the formation of Armidale – and there will be another colourful chapter to add to its storied history.”