The asbestos problem in the Uni Queensland landmark is worse than thought

The university closed the complex including the theatre Thursday night, after advice that asbestos containment in the roof are no longer “completely effective.” Uni Queensland says there was no risk to anybody who has been in the theatre but it is closed for six weeks of tests and checks. The university hopes the building will re-open in then.

But not for an indefinite run.

Planned redevelopment of the student complex, which includes Schonnel, was paused for the pandemic last year. Consultation, including with the Student Union executive is underway, which Vice Chancellor Deborah Terry says, “will be part of the governance structure when the design phase begins.”