This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
AFTER community consultation, Mirvac and Milieu have lodged a town planning application for build-to-rent development Albert Fields.
The application was lodged with the Moreland City Council for the one-hectare BTR urban renewal precinct in Brunswick and plans to amalgamate seven land parcels on Albert street.
The precinct to be developed in Melbourne’s inner north will consist of 500 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
Over nine weeks, 700 responses to the survey put out to the public were received, the survey asked locals to share their thoughts and ideas on the future of Brunswick.
72% of responders to this survey wanted access to fossil-free energy, 60% wanted a prioritisation of pedestrians and cyclists, 58% stated security of tenure was a priority for renters and 57% stated the ability to personalise their homes was important.
The survey also showed a preference for sustainability in design, materials and landscaping, as well as a value for qualities such as diversity, open spaces, transport links and for stakeholder’s voices to be heard during early development.
“We set out to understand the needs and challenges faced by tenants and the surrounding neighbourhood including park users, community groups and businesses, as well as issues relating to landscaping, ecology and affordability,” said Campbell Hanan, head of commercial property at Mirvac.
“The insights gleaned are invaluable, and we’re thrilled to reach this milestone in bringing Albert Fields to life as a place where residents will live on their own terms,” said Hanan.
The precinct has ambitions of a 7-star NatHERS thermal rating, as well as plans for community initiatives targeting resident environmental behaviour.
The precinct will also feature community spaces, such as outdoor terraces, coworking and communal dining spaces, as well as a health and wellness centre, bike workshop and pet salon.
Designed by local architecture and landscaping practices, Fieldwork, Breathe Architecture and Openwork, Albert Fields intends to be defined by “sustainability and community”.
“As a local who lived close to the site for over 10 years, I’ve taken great care to incorporate elements of Brunswick’s DNA into the design through material, colour, texture and form. The precinct will also provide a net community benefit through an improved public realm and the creation of new pedestrian connections,” said Quino Holland, director of Fieldwork.
The development is expected to create around 2,250 jobs and is due for completion in 2024.
