This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
BROWN Property Group has received development approval for a mixed-use precinct in Melbourne’s south east growth corridor that will deliver more than 17,000 sqm of retail and commercial space.
Known as Meridian Village, the Clyde North development will also have nearly 2,700 sqm of residential and 551 car parking bays.
The commercial tenancies will be perched between existing industrial and residential areas.
Brown Property Group COO, Ryan Pritchard, said it is the culmination of a long-held vision for the master-planned Meridian residential estate.
“In our original visioning 10 years ago, we used the principles of the 20-minute neighbourhood, and this is one of the final pieces,”
“Based on feedback from over 560 residents, we’ve ended up with something that’s very different from an off-the-shelf solution.”
Planners Urbis, leasing agent Nexus Retailers and retail and commercial architects, Buchan have all been involved in the project.
Buchan principal, Grant Withers, described Meridian Village as an “anti-mall”.
“Meridian Village centres on a generous public piazza that spills out into the surrounding parklands and precinct. It’s the opposite of an enclosed, air-conditioned retail centre.”
He said the sweeping saw-tooth roof that covers the piazza is a nod to the agricultural sheds that are part of the suburb’s heritage, and provides passive ventilation.
The piazza will be used day and night, and can host community-centred activities, such as markets, performances and workshops.”
On the upper levels, childcare, medical, co-working space and a community hub encourage living and working within the precinct and support the retail and food-and-beverage at ground level.
Solar panels and water tanks will be integrated, and extensive planting will reduce the heat island effect and provide connection to nature. The precinct designed is walkable, accessible and easily navigable, with ample bicycle and car parking, and the tenant and place mix offers passive surveillance around the clock for safety.
