“We have already expressed our interest in bringing the digital university to Weyregg to Governor Thomas Stelzer,” says Gerhard Prammer, representative of the owners of the former agricultural school in Weyregg and board member of VIVAG AG. Weyregg is therefore also starting to advertise for the location the IT:U.
The property in question in Weyregg – as reported, has an eventful history – comprises several properties and is 15,000 square meters in size. In terms of location and potential, Prammer is convinced that the location could become a unique place for a university. There have already been many plans for the area in question (with changing owners) in the past: from a hotel project to a nursing school and apartments for the elderly.
“This project would be a milestone and a significant benefit for the town, the population and the entire region. I am firmly convinced that politicians will examine this opportunity thoroughly and, if necessary, seize it,” says Mayor Michael Stur (VP).
After the city of Linz said no to the location in Urfahr, IT:U is looking for an alternative. In addition to the state capital itself, Wels, Steyr, Leonding and Hagenberg are in the running so far.
“Perfect framework conditions” in Traun
There is also interest in the digital university from the city of Traun. This brings the “perfect framework conditions,” says Mayor Karl-Heinz Koll (VP). The approximately 20,000 square meter area behind the HTBLA Traun at Bahnhofsstrasse 52 is an ideal area for the digital university; a student residence could also be built here. The location is well developed, with the train station and tram connection nearby.
“The location of the new digital university would be a once-in-a-century opportunity for Traun. Because there is neither a university nor a technical college location in Traun, the unique selling point would be even greater,” says Koll. There are synergies with the HTL Traun, the HAK and the high school as well as local companies.
“The current developments surrounding the Digital University give the impression that IT:U has become a plaything of individual interests in the political debate, instead of acting together and across parties. The fact that the location issue was finally declared a “top priority” by Governor Stelzer this week confirms this perception. In Traun, we strive for constructive cooperation – an approach that IT:U needs now more than ever,” concludes Koll.
Gmunden also wants the university
Stefan Krapf, mayor of Gmunden, also wants to be involved in the location discussion. “The fact is that Gmunden has a central location and is optimally connected to public transport,” he says, without naming a specific location. Gmunden also has experience with university institutions and a concept can be developed quickly.
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