Taylors Quarter

In achieving this certification in 2019, the project was commended on the quality and content of their Climate Change Risk Assessment, with this work being recognised as an exemplar for other developers committed to sustainable outcomes.

Some of the project’s key initiatives include:

• Water Sensitive Urban Design features such as raingardens, which are integrated into the streetscapes and open space.
• More than 90% of plant species used within the development are native.
• Planting within Messara Park incorporates the local native and critically endangered Grasslands of the Victorian Volcanic Plains vegetation community.
• Implementation of a Construction Waste Management Plan and a 60% recycle or reuse rate on site.
• Design Guidelines which consider energy requirements, including active and passive design standards, peak load reduction measures and a 6-star minimum NatHERS rating, as well as mandated energy efficiency initiatives.
• Low VOC emission paints, sealants, adhesives and floor coverings, and E0 engineered wood products mandated within the design guidelines.
• A 3,000L rainwater tank is mandated for all lots, to be connected to toilets, laundries and irrigation systems, as well as water-efficient sanitaryware and appliances.
• The design of the public realm has considered community, social interaction and the linkages to quality open spaces.
• The site has ample access to public transport, parks, nature reserves, sports ovals and local services/amenity.

Development Victoria’s commitment to environmental sustainability led to a collaboration with Brimbank City Council to provide 20% RAP (Recycled Asphalt Pavement) Type N asphalt mix for all road pavements – a significant improvement on the standard 10% RAP asphalt mix which was more commonly used at the time.

The use of 20% RAP asphalt mix reduces the consumption of natural resources (aggregate and binder), and the volume of material going to landfill.

Stormwater management was a particular focus for this site, with significant increases in expected stormwater flows since establishment of the suburb. A combination of underground stormwater storage tanks and retarding basins provided the solution, with the underground tanks effectively ‘hidden’ away under the grassed kick-about area of Messara Park.

These storage tanks also provide Council with future opportunities for re-use of the stored stormwater for irrigation of the grass and garden areas of the park.