The South Australian Government has been awarded the first 6 Star Green Star – Communities certification for an urban renewal project by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) for the redevelopment of Tonsley.

The project brings together industrial, retail, residential and education facilities to create a vibrant and sustainable precinct, now officially recognised by the GBCA as demonstrating ‘World Leadership’ in masterplanned communities.

The Green Building Council of Australia CEO, Romilly Madew says the urban renewal project of a former Mitsubishi manufacturing site at Tonsley shows just how much is possible through commitment to sustainability and an innovative mindset.

“The adaptive re-use of the culturally significant Mitsubishi Main Assembly Building (MAB) has prevented the loss of around 90,000 tonnes of carbon emissions embodied in its original construction, a saving equivalent to taking 25,000 cars off the road for a year. In addition to this, the MAB has been rejuvenated with future use in mind. Flexible, modular and pod tenancies that can adapt to changing community needs will ensure this important part of the area’s history, remains an asset into the future,” says Ms Madew.

Sustainability has formed the cornerstone of the entire Tonsley redevelopment and a number of exceptional environmental outcomes contributed to the 6 Star Green Star rating. Public spaces are designed using water-sensitive urban design principles, walking and cycle paths are fully connected for easy access to public transport, and plans for a 3 MW solar array installed on the Main Assembly Building (MAB) roof will produce sustainable and affordable energy for residents.

“Tonsley’s 6 Star Green Star accreditation is an unprecedented milestone for the South Australian building industry,” South Australian Treasurer Mr Koutsantonis said. “Tonsley is Australia’s only urban renewal development to achieve this level of certification and is a testament to the world-class design principles which have guided the redevelopment of the former Mitsubishi site.”

Green Building Council of Australia
www.gbca.org.au