The Link is about to look like the Dunedin Farmers Market after getting a glow up which will leave microwave-lovers and OUSA clubs rejoicing. The University is partway through constructing a quasi-kitchen for the area, as well as opening up space for a series of groups to open stalls during allocated lunchtime slots. There’s so much to do, why even bother going into the library?
Critic Te Ārohi spoke to Martin Jones, the Union’s operations manager, who outlined the proposed changes. We forgot to bring our voice recorder so the details are hazy, but Martin told us that the kitchen would include significant bench space, a sink, a boiling water tap, and 6-9 microwaves (he took great care to emphasise the microwave aspect). Progress on the kitchen has only recently started and is projected to be finished in the upcoming months.
In addition to increased kitchen space, a series of lockers are being cleared out to create an alcove which will serve as an area for club stalls to set up camp. Martin proposed that the space would be let out to students for free at times when the Link got busy. To this degree, they would have the opportunity to advertise their club or even sell products within the Link.
The recent addition of food stations outside Cafe Albany has further contributed to the marketplace vibe that Martin and the team are going for. Most recently established has been ‘The Rolling Taco’, a cosy Mexican food stall selling $5 tacos (cheaper than Amigos’ $6 Taco Tuesday deal). Justice, a worker at the stall, told Critic that things had been “pretty steady” since opening. “Staff and students are loving it […] chilled vibes.” Proving that Justice wasn’t lying through her teeth, student Charlotte said, “I love it!”
At the news of the further proposed changes, Charlotte said that “they all sound like really good additions and will help a lot to manage the [microwave] lines,” which can get pretty long according to Cafe Albany staff member Joanna. “At lunchtime, it can get pretty bad queuing up for the 2-3 microwaves around the place so hopefully this will make it easier,” she said.
Proposed changes will take place gradually in the area.