The City of Gosnells has achieved a 5 Star Green Star – Office Design v2 rating for the retrofit of its Civic Centre. In doing so the City has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and shown that even buildings constructed during the 1970s can be given an environmental and economic overhaul.
Paul McAllister, Project Manager, City of Gosnells, explains: “Initially we thought the age of the building would make a sustainable retrofit unviable, however for an additional cost of 3 percent, a sustainable makeover was the only responsible option.”
The council expects a five year payback period on the extra outlay of $750,000 demonstrating that building green is a smart financial decision. As McAllister points out: “We have a commitment to fiscal responsibility for our rate payers. That’s why we decided to build green.”
The sustainable transformation means the Civic Centre is now future-proofed to withstand tighter environmental legislation, the rising cost of utilities and the introduction of a price on carbon. Its energy and water saving features will reduce bills, while the improved indoor environment quality is helping the City improve productivity as well as attract and retain staff who want to work in a healthy and sustainable workplace.
The City of Gosnells’ Civic Centre demonstrates that smart, sustainable design is not the preserve of large, expensive developments. The council’s 5 Star Green Star rating is positive proof that low-technology design principles and a modest budget can produce a leadingedge green building.
WHAT CITY OF GOSNELLS ACHIEVED: