Major retirement living operator Lendlease says its $270 million Bernborough Ascot development in Brisbane is set to be the most sustainable retirement community in Australia, after securing the sector’s first 6 Star Green Star Communities rating.
Lendlease scored the top sustainability rating for Bernborough Ascot - which is next to Doomben race course - for a range of initiatives including:
- Design: The spacious homes have been strategically and sustainably designed by Marchese Partners. They are positioned to maximise cooling breezes and cross flow ventilation, lengthen shade periods and provide optimal environments. The buildings are connected by walkways and green spaces and with access to communal gardens and amenities. Bernborough Ascot is located in a convenient location, close to public transport.
- Renewable energy and water efficiency: Onsite solar panels will supply the community with energy. Water Sensitive Urban Design principles used in the design of the project will help reduce potable water consumption. Rainwater tanks will supply water for irrigation for the precinct’s gardens.
- Landscaping: Plants selected for the precinct’s gardens and living walls will flourish in Brisbane’s subtropical climate and will not require intensive watering.
- Heritage: To save a 70-80-year-old weeping fig tree, an intensive 17-weeks was spent working with tree experts to relocate the 140-tonne tree to another part of the community. Independent analysis of the tree’s health shows it is thriving in its new location in the community and is expected to live up to 200 years.
The integrated retirement living community is being constructed in stages, with the first stage opened in October 2020.
When completed, Bernborough Ascot will feature 300 large luxury independent living apartments and penthouse style homes, lifestyle amenities including a bowls green, health and wellness studio with a pool, spa, gymnasium and consulting rooms, a rooftop terrace, restaurant and outdoor dining areas.
Lendlease Retirement Living Managing Director Nathan Cockerill said: “Bernborough Ascot residents will benefit from the sustainability measures we’re delivering – not just in terms of driving down energy and water bills but also the lifestyle and health outcomes from living in such a green community."
Green Building Council of Australia CEO Davina Rooney said: "This is an Australian-first achieving a 6 Star Green Star Communities rating for a retirement community masterplan and I congratulate Lendlease on their sustainability leadership. This certification means Bernborough Ascot is at a world-leading standard and its residents and surrounding community are now poised to enjoy the enormous benefits sustainable buildings create for people.”
