The Council, which will assess the heritage listing of the college, has said it supported the continuing use of the residence. 

The response comes after college rivalries were set aside with students marching together up the hill to Booloominbah on Friday.

A 600-strong march was the latest protest against the University of New England’s failure to consult with students before making its initial decision to close Robb and Drummond and Smith colleges and relocate the Robb students into the Drummond building. 

Since then, the university has since changed its position, saying it would co-locate the students in the Drummond and Smith building next trimester.

It promised the culture and identity of both colleges would be maintained in the meantime.

The Heritage Council received a nomination for listing Robb College on the State Heritage Register in 2012, and said it had been liaising with the university during this process.

Council spokesman Lawrence Orel said avenues were being considered to retain existing residential buildings.

“The Heritage Council supports the ongoing use of Robb College and understands the requirement of the refurbishment and upgrade works to facilitate its use into the future,” Mr Orel said.

“[State Heritage Register] listing would ensure the heritage values of Robb College are given appropriate consideration during the works.

“Prior to listing of Robb College on [the register], UNE is entitled to undertake work.

“If listed … UNE will still be entitled to undertake work as approved by the Heritage Council,” he said.

Mr Orel said the primary objective of the Council was to allow Robb to be used as a college.

Student representative from Drummond and Smith College James Botfield said the decision by the university was “too little, too late”.

“We shouldn’t have to protest to get heard,” he said at the demonstration on Friday.

Students held placards, chanted and sang You’re the Voice to ensure their message was heard by the management of the university.