The Parramatta City Council is the first local government in Australia to seek a Green Star – Communities rating, and specify Green Star ratings for each building across an entire precinct.

This will be achieved through its $1.6 billion urban renewal project, Parramatta Square – a three hectare, mixed-use development that will form the backbone for the growth of Parramatta, NSW.

Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr John Chedid says that this precinct will create a city that is environmentally sustainable and based on good urban design. This is reflected in its target of achieving 5 Star Green Star ratings for all buildings across the six stages of Parramatta Square’s development, as well as achieving one of the first Green Star – Communities ratings.

The development will also centre on vast and vibrant public spaces, and feature an effective, integrated public transport system.

“A Green Star certification sends a clear message to our community that we are committed to building long-term assets that are sustainable, productive and fiscally responsible,” says Chedid.

The six stages of the project include:

STAGE ONE: 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta

Commercial, 24,500 sqm 5 Green Star office tower, to be completed late 2015.

STAGE TWO: The Aspire Tower, Corner Church and Darcy Streets, Parramatta

90-storey 5 Green Star mixed use tower of 700 apartments, 150-key hotel, ground level retail, a skydeck and experience centre. Expression of Interest for developers anticipated late 2013.

STAGE THREE: 153 Macquarie Street, Parramatta

Commercial and community facilities, 24,000 sqm 5 Green Star office tower, a 7,000 sqm 5 Green Star public facilities including civic building, community centre and library opening out onto the public domain. Construction start anticipated late 2014.

STAGE FOUR: 5,000 sqm 5 Green Star mixed use retail and commercial building central to the Parramatta Square Public Domain. Subject of design competition.

STAGE FIVE & SIX: 100,000 sqm dual commercial 5 Green Star office towers. Subject of design competition.

Parramatta Square will be assessed by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) against the Green Star – Communities best practice benchmarks for liveability, prosperity, environmental sustainability, design excellence, governance and innovation.

“We applaud Parramatta City Council’s leadership and are very excited to be working with the Council to realise its vision for a community that meets world-leading social, economic and environmental benchmarks,” says Romilly Madew, CEO of the GBCA.

“A Green Star - Communities rating will give residents, businesses, investors and Parramatta City Council independent proof that Parramatta Square delivers environmental, economic and social sustainability not just now, but for decades to come.”

Images: www.parracity.nsw.gov.au

Geraldine Chua

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