The City of Salisbury Council’s Walkleys Road Corridor Residential Development plan has become South Australia’s first fully residential community to achieve a 6-Star Green Star Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), recognising world leadership in sustainability and community design.
The rating is the highest possible and the first time it has been awarded to a fully residential community in the state.
“Walkleys Road Corridor shows how affordability, sustainability and liveability can come together to benefit residents and set a benchmark for the communities of the future,” the Council said in a statement.
Key elements contributing to the rating include:
- Smart site planning, urban design, and a housing affordability strategy offering diverse and attainable options for buyers;
- Development of new community facilities such as the Baloo Street Playspace, providing safe, family-friendly spaces;
- Walking and cycling paths that connect residents with schools, jobs, parks, transport and sport facilities;
- Use of Salisbury Water’s recycled water and Water Sensitive Urban Design principles to reduce costs and environmental impacts;
- Solar power generation that meets at least 30% of annual energy needs, helping households lower their power bills;
- Housing design guidelines that enhance safety, comfort and quality of life;
- Extensive engagement with local residents and stakeholders to ensure the development reflects community needs.
The project also delivers on Council’s new Economic Development and Growth Strategy, particularly its focus on housing a growing and diverse population.
Planning approval for the development is currently being sought with civil construction due to commence in the new year. It is expected that a registration of interest process will be undertaken for those interested in buying land within the development.
“It’s an incredible achievement for Salisbury to lead the way with South Australia’s first fully residential 6 Star Green Star Communities certification. At Walkleys Road Corridor, families will enjoy well-designed homes, safe paths for walking and cycling, and bills that are easier to manage thanks to smart, sustainable features,” said Mayor, Gillian Aldridge OAM.
“This is about more than housing – it’s about creating a neighbourhood where people feel proud to live and can enjoy a strong sense of community.”
“Walkleys Road Corridor is a powerful example of how affordability, liveability and sustainability can come together in one community. A 6 Star Green Star Communities rating is a significant achievement, representing world leadership,” said Green Building Council of Australia CEO, Davina Rooney.
“It shows that when we plan with people, place and climate in mind, we create neighbourhoods that deliver real and lasting value. The City of Salisbury has set a benchmark that communities across Australia can now aspire to,” she said.
