Darebin, VIC approves Good Design Guides for new apartments and medium-density housing
Each guide outlines seven principles for livable and sustainable design including resiliency, functionality, and beauty. Readers find diagrams of design features including landscaping and accessible layouts. The guides show the do's and don'ts of design with photos of buildings in the council. The Good Design Guides build on a Design Excellence Program that created a city designer position and developed a capital project design competition.
Planning+4
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Darebin, VIC reuses and recycles building materials for KP Hardiman Reserve project
Metal fences and artificial playing surfaces will move from the demolished stadium to parks, schools, and golf courses. Plastic, concrete, and crusher dust are slated for reuse in asphalt. The new KP Hardiman Reserve will use recycled plastic for seats and turf. Recycled glass will be used for paths throughout the facility and recycled paper mulch will surround the field. This innovative project garnered funding from Victoria's Sustainable Infrastructure Fund.
Facilities & Infrastructure+2
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Australia
Darebin, VIC achieves environmental and traffic goals with Rapid Canopy Project
The Rapid Canopy Project will add 6,000 new trees to nature strips throughout the council over 15 months. Contractors will maintain tree health over the first two years after project completion. Adding tree canopy to Darebin neighborhoods improves drainage, lowers temperatures, and provides wildlife habitats. Council officials are also supported by research that found tree-lined streets slows traffic in residential areas.
Public Works+3
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Australia
Darebin, VIC uses assertive outreach and shower access pilots to assist homeless community
Darebin partnered with Merri Outreach Support Services to develop teams familiar with local resources for homeless residents. This two-year pilot connects people in need with housing, medical care, and long-term health services. Homeless residents also gained access to showers and restrooms at two locations during a separate six-month pilot.
Health & Human Services+2
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