Defence Housing Australia development receives green tick of approval

Defence Housing Australia (DHA), a provider of housing to defence members and their families, has received the EnviroDevelopment green tick of approval from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) for its new residential development located in Largs North, South Australia.

The development, Bayriver, is located 18 km from the Adelaide CBD and will provide 127 lots including houses, apartments and townhouses. It has been recognised by the EnviroDevelopment board for outstanding performance across all six of the rating tool’s key elements (‘leaves’): Ecosystems, Waste, Energy, Materials, Water and Community.

“Bayriver demonstrates how innovative design and engineering solutions can be used to overcome significant environmental challenges,” said DHA Managing Director Peter Howman.

“The former brownfield site has been transformed from an old oval and neighbouring industrial site into an up-and-coming residential development and landscaped greenbelt that will add immense value to the local community.”

The UDIA board also made significant mention of Meyer Reserve, a 2.25 ha recreational hub at the centre of the development, around which Bayriver residents, and residents of Largs North as a whole, can build a strong community.

“In its design, Meyer Reserve offers many unique features, the most significant of these being the swale,” Howman said. “Its main purpose is to collect and filter stormwater; however, the extensive planting of more than 55,000 natives also provides visual interest, shade and wind protection.”

Meyer Reserve represents an investment by DHA in the local community and the environment. It is integrated with pedestrian walkways and cycle paths linking to surrounding neighbourhoods, ensuring that the facilities and play equipment can be enjoyed by all