Public transport encouraged at Jaques apartment complex

Melbourne developer Riverlee Group is making environmentally sustainable transport easier for residents of its newly completed apartment complex, Jaques, based at the site of the former Jaques Bros machinery foundry, Richmond.

Comprising five buildings, all designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects, the complex includes 377 townhouses and apartment buildings contained on almost 1 ha of land bounded by Palmer, Coppin, Highett and Griffiths Streets. Sustainability features include double-glazed facades to control solar heat and shading, solar water heating, rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling and more.

Furthermore, Riverlee is making sustainable travel easier by installing live Tram Tracker information screens in lobbies. The screens are on 24 hours a day and provide real-time updates to residents, allowing them to plan their tram trips accordingly.

“Statistics show that 30% of Richmond residents use public transport and that it is the second most popular way to get to work after driving,” said Kristine Lee, Riverlee’s sales and marketing director. “We hope that by empowering our residents with alternative options to cars that the majority of Jaques residents won’t immediately pick up car keys when they leave home.”

Free bicycles and Myki cards were provided to many residents upon moving in. Riverlee has also provided two car share bays on Griffiths Street and is in the process of installing a bike share station on Dyer Street.

“Developers have a role to play in empowering and encouraging residents to lighten their footprint,” said Lee. “Good design encourages conscious living and can make a difference to the greater environment.”