Quarry Futures: Re-imagining Austral Bricks Wollert
Strategic Report
Rochelle Fernandez
Eliza Kane
Qinglan Yang
Ecological City - Quarry Futures
Semester 2, 2024
Lecturer:
Liz Taylor
Prepared by:
Rochelle Fernandez
Eliza Kane
Qinglan Yang
Architecture team:
Tomas Ackerley
Haruna Kim
Noah Stone
Date: 3 November 2024
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin nation, as the original custodians of the lands and water on which the Austral Bricks Wollert quarry is located.
We pay our deep respects to Indigenous communities and to Elders past and present. We recognise and value the ongoing contribution of Indigenous people to the sustainable development that supports our communities.
In recent trends towards sustainable urban regeneration, quarry remediation plays a crucial role by transforming years of degraded industrial lands into functional landscapes that serve environmental, economic and community purposes. The rehabilitation of these sites supports urban resilience by restoring ecosystems, mitigates environmental damage and stabilises once hazardous areas.
This report - Brick by Brick: Re-imagining Austral Bricks Wollert’ - outlines a strategic vision and plan for the remediation of the Austral Bricks clay quarry in Wollert (ABW Site). Strategically situated within Melbourne’s expanding Northern Growth Corridor, amidst major rail and road freight networks, the ABW Site offers immense opportunity to be redeveloped to support industrial land uses, provide employment opportunities, and contribute to the Victorian economy. This plan addresses the critical need for effective remediation of the ABW Site, prior to and upon cessation of quarrying activities, to facilitate future land uses that balance environmental restoration with economic opportunities.
The remediation strategy of the ABW Site is underpinned by three key principles:
• Renature and reconnect
• Industry from innovation
• Extraction to energy
By recognising the potential of the ABW Site to reconcile conflicts between the site’s critical ecological and environmental significance, and the opportunity for economic and industrial benefits, these guiding principles provide direction for effective redevelopment.
Key strategies and actions inspired by the vision and guiding principles for the remediation of the ABW Site are presented in this report under the following three categories:
• Ecology and environment: Committed to promoting and supporting biodiversity restoration and delivering the ABW Site back to the community and Traditional Owners.
• Industry and employment: Aimed at delivering a ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct, which moves aware from traditional industrial land uses to promotes sustainable manufacturing production and practices.
• Energy: Focused on transitioning the ABW Site from extractive activities to a net-zero precinct, involving renewable energy generation and recycling site-derived materials and waste.
The implementation of these strategies are demonstrated by throught the provision of the conservation areas; urban parklands and recreational areas; an industrial precinct; and a solar farm. Though distinct in nature, the strategies in this report have been developed to allow the proposed uses to mutually coexist and support each other’s functions.
The vision for redeveloping the ABW Site is ambitious and a marked departure from the business-as-usual approach to environmental and urban development. However, upon completion, the remediated Austral Bricks Wollert Site aims to serve as a model of postquarry regeneration, illustrating the potential for quarries to evolve into dynamic community and ecological assets supporting sustainable urban regeneration.
Sustainable regeneration practices provide quarries (degraded industrial lands) an opportunity to acquire a new identity, purpose and meaning, allowing them to be transformed into ecologically valuable and socially beneficial urban spaces.
(Talento et al., 2020)
Land-use changes induced by urbanisation influence how human societies interact with the environment (Semeraro et al., 2019). As urbanisation continues to drive the shift towards sustainable land-use changes, quarries present opportunities for re-imagining post-industrial landscapes.
The Ecological City Studio: Quarry Futures explores how quarries can be repurposed into energy, waste and ecological systems, and how these degraded lands fit within expanding urban landscapes. The studio encourages the exploration of alternative approaches to environmental and planning frameworks, to address the complex challenges associated with extractive industries.
This report highlights sustainable approaches to reduce risks associated with post-operative quarries to the community and environment, and outlines a planning proposal to support future remediation and re-use of the focus quarry, Austral Bricks Wollert (ABW Site). The proposal addresses critical elements of sustainable urban regeneration - such as ecological restoration, community integration and local energy production, taking a staged approach to the development of the ABW Site.
Drawing on site analysis data, relevant case studies and policy frameworks, the proposal presents a vision and a set of principles to guide the remediation of the ABW Site, and suggest alternative planning strategies and assessment approaches. It explores long-term implications for sustainable urban regeneration, positioning the ABW Site as a valuable asset within the broader environmental, social, and economic context.
Wollert is located in the Whittlesea local government area (LGA), ~ 25 km north-west of the Melbourne CBD (see fig. 12). The name ‘Wollert’ is derived from an Indigenous expression referring to possums (City of Whittlesea, n.d.).
While Wollert and the broader Whittlesea LGA has become increasingly urban over time, the area has a long history of rural and farming activity.
From the 1830s to the 1850s, sheep farming was the main activity, after which time the land in the area was subdivided into smaller farms. The Wollert area operated as an important dairy production base up until the 1960s (Victorian Places, n.d.). Today, the Wollert area and its surroundings also contain a number of extractive industries (including the ABW Site) and industrial areas.
The area is connected via a number of key transport modes. Wollert residents are connected to the Metropolitan Ring Road via the Hume Freeway (see fig. 11 + fig. 13 overleaf) (Victorian Places, n.d.), and along the Craigieburn Metro Train line. The suburb is also nearby to Melbourne and Essendon airports - providing access to interstate and overseas locations.
Wollert is home to a diverse and growing population. The increase in population of 24,407 people as at 2021 (ABS, 2021), up from 9,060 in 2016 (ABS, 2016), highlights significant growth in the region and increase in population density. With the average age of residents 30 years old (Australia Bureau of Statistics [ABS], 2021), there is a need to support a younger population with employment opportunities and community facilities.
Projecting out to 2036, the Wollert population is expected to exceed 30,000 people (Profile iD, n.d.). Accordingly, strategic plans for the redevelopment of the ABW Site have been developed to ensure that re-use of the area can best serve the needs of current and future populations of Wollert and the broader community.
Existing residential areas
Freight (rail) line
Creek
Wollert boundary
ABW quarry boundary
galgi ngarrk (Craigieburn Grasslands)
Hume Freeway
Existing residential areas
Existing industrial areas
The ABW Site and surrounds have historically been, and continue to be, areas of Country to which the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples have significant cultural ties (State Government of Victoria (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action [DEECA], 2023).
The galgi ngarrk Craigieburn Grassland reserve (see fig. 14), the native grasslands located south of the ABW Site (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), 2023) and Merri Creek (see fig. 15) are culturally significant natural landscapes, which are home to indigenous plants and native animals (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), 2023).
Due to proximity to water bodies (e.g. the Merri Creek) and other natural features, areas on and surrounding the ABW Site have been designated as ‘areas of cultural heritage sensitivity’ under the Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018 (Vic) (see fig. 16).
Importantly for the future direction of the ABW Site, areas within and surrounding the site are planned to be integrated into a larger parkland area - the marram baba Regional Parklands (see fig. 16). Areas of the Parklands are intended to be transferred back to the ownership and management of the Traditional Owners (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), 2023).
There are a number of key strategic policies and documents which inform the strategy for the redevelopment of the ABW Site.
At the State Government level, Wollert is located within the Urban Growth Boundary. Plan Melbourne 2017 - 2050 (State Government (Department of Transport and Planning [DTP]), 2024) is the State government’s preeminent long-term strategic planning policy. The policy emphasises the State Government’s commitment to creating a city which is environmentally friendly, healthy, and has low to net-zero carbon emissions (State Government of Victoria (DTP), 2024).
The Northern Growth Corridor Plan and Northern Metro Land Use Framework Plan (State Government of Victoria, n.d.) contain the land use and transport strategy for the next 30-40 years for the specific region within which the ABW Site is located. These strategies place high demands on environmental protection in the northern region, as well as the retention of land for industrial uses. These plans identify areas and land for industrial functions, whilst also ensuring that land is allocated for community services, open spaces and park networks to support growing populations.
See discussed further on page 26.
Specific to the ABW Site, the Whittlesea Planning Scheme (2024) contains and imposes specific planning controls which regulate the development of the ABW Site. A number of planning controls applied to the ABW Site are intended to protect the surrounding natural environment
See discussed further on pages 20 and 21.
The marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands Future Directions Plan (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), 2023) is an important plan to inform the environmental and public realm elements of redevelopment strategy for the ABW Site. Notably, the plan currently envisages that parts of the ABW Site will be incorporated into the broader urban parkland and conservation areas (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), 2023). This is relevant to determining the proposed re-uses of the ABW Site - which will need to have regard to the renaturing and / or protection of the urban parkland areas. Further, this policy informs what stakeholder consultations are required for the redevelopment of the ABW Site, particularly with the Traditional Owners and Registered Aboriginal Party (the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation), to whom ownership and management of the regional parkland will be transferred (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), 2023).
See also discussed on page 16.
Site Context:
The ABW Site is a brick manufacturing facility, owned by the Austral Bricks Company (a subsidiary of Brickworks Ltd.), located in Wollert, Melbourne. The quarry site covers a sprawling 530 hectares of industrial land and lies within the Whittlesea Local Government Area, and is known for its production of high quality bricks used for construction across Victoria (Brickworks, n.d.).
The ABW Site is defined by its two prominent north and south parcels, with a belt of trees separating them. The site’s western edge is bound by the Merri Creek and the principal rail network running closely. The Summer Hill Complex with heritage value sits on one of the elevated tops in the northern part of the site (see fig. 23). Other surrounding contextual features include Cleanaway’s proposed Melbourne Energy and Resource Centre (Waste to Energy facility) towards the north, and the galgi ngarrk Craigieburn Grasslands to the south of the site.
Site Features:
The ABW Site generally features flat to gently sloping terrain, with elevations varying across the landscape. The quarry itself constitutes deep depressions (see fig. 27) and man-made landforms, including steep embankments and terraces with exposed clay surfaces, created by ongoing extraction activities.
Natural drainage patterns have been generated by quarrying operations, with artificial channels and sediment ponds (formed after reaching groundwater levels), helping to manage runoff. Although the quarry site was established by Austral Bricks in 2006, earlier maps of the region suggest that the site may have been used for industrial purposes or quarrying activities from as early as 1981, thus indicating years of topographical altercations.
While much of the site is disturbed due to industrial activities, there are areas of remnant vegetation all throughout the site, especially the conservation areas along the Merri Creek region in the west, providing a buffer between the site and surrounding land uses.
Existing infrastructure on-site include industrial facilities for brick manufacturing i.e. the Brickworks Design Centre (see item 1 in fig. 21), along with access roads and service connections, which could support future redevelopment possibilities.
Scale:
With a combined area of 530 hectares (Northern and Southern ABW lands), the ABW Site occupies a massive space, equivalent to 265 Melbourne Cricket Grounds (see fig. 26).
Such an expansive area provides development potential for ecological restoration, public spaces and recreation, and infrastructure capacity. However, it does also raise some challenges in terms of high costs of infrastructure planning and management complexities.
The following zones apply to the ABW Site:
• Special Use Zone 4 - Earth and Energy Resources Industry (SUZ4)
• Rural Conservation Zone 1 - Conservation Values (RCZ1).
A key purpose of the SUZ4 (relevant to the ABW Site) is to “recognise or provide for the use and development of land for earth and energy resources industry” (Whittlesea Planning Scheme, sch. 4, cl. 37.01). That is, SUZ4 is specifically applied to the ABW Site for extractive and quarrying activity.
The RCZ1 purports to, among other things, ensure the conservation of “indigenous flora and fauna, watercourse capacity…” (Whittlesea Planning Scheme, sch 1, cl. 35.06). This is relevant to the conservation areas and biodiversity surrounding the ABW Site.
The following overlays apply to the ABW Site:
• Environmental Significance Overlays 3, 4 and 6 (ESO)
• Rural Floodway Overlay (RFO)
• Heritage Overlay 4 (HO4)
• Design and Development Overlay 2 (DDO2)
• Development Contributions Plan Overlay 16 (DPCO16).
The planning overlays act as controls over the development on and near significant features of the ABW Site and surrounds - including the Merri Creek, the Summerhill Complex heritage building and the Hume Freeway.
The ABW Site is located in an area of environmental and biodiversity significance, surrounded by a number of key landscape and natural features. The ABW Site is also part of a broader chain of environmental areas, which are linked through the northern parts of Melbourne (see fig. 32).
The galgi ngarrk Craigieburn Grassland Reserve - a large native grassland reserve (~400 hectares) (Merri Creek Management Committee, 2023) is located to the southwest of the ABW Site. The west boundary of the ABW Site is bound by the by Merri Creek.
The ABW Site is also wholly located within the Melbourne Strategic Assessment Area. The purpose of the Melbourne Strategic Assessment Area (under the Melbourne Strategic Assessment (Environment Mitigation Levy) Act 2020 (Vic) (MSA Act)) is to protect biodiversity, environmental values and threatened and endangered species in outer areas of Melbourne (State Government of Victoria (DEECA), n.d.). The MSA Act imposes obligations on developers, including payment of fees and to prepare plans for the management and protection of protected areas during and after redevelopment.
Species protected by the MSA Act, in addition to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBCA), which are located within and around the ABW Site, include the Growling Grass Frog and Golden Sun Moth (Merri Creek Management Committee, 2023).
The ABW Site is also the location of, as well as in close proximity to a number of designated conservation areas under the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (BCS) (State Government of Victoria, 2013) - a key strategy responding to the obligations under the EPBCA and for “the protection of biodiversity in the growth corridors” (State Government of Victoria, 2013, p. 1).
In particular, the eastern area of the ABW Site (see fig. 32) has been designated as Conservation area 30 under the BCS (State Government of Victoria, 2013). The BCS recognises the environmental value of this area and contains strategies and actions specifically targeted at “[protecting] Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands and a range of other biodiversity values of national significance” which are present in this area (State Government of Victoria, 2013, p. 109).
The ecological and environmental conditions of the ABW Site and broader Wollert area provide important context for the redevelopment strategies for the site. These conditions also provide compelling justification for the restoration of the environmental and biodiversity values of the ABW Site - to integrate it back into the existing natural landscape.
The strong industrial character of the broader region within which the ABW Site is located provides both challenges and opportunities for the redevelopment strategy.
Wollert is located within the Northern Growth Corridor, or the Northern Metro Region (NMR) under Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 (State Government of Victoria (Department of Transport and Planning), 2024) (see fig. 35). The planning strategy for the NMR contemplates the role of this area in supporting industrial land uses, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the Victorian economy (State Government of Victoria (Department of Transport and Planning), n.d.). This is in part due to the key transport modes, such as major rail and road freight networks, which form the ‘spine’ of the region (Victorian Planning Authority [VPA], 2023), as well as the proximity to the Melbourne Airport. This connects the northern region to interstate and international destinations (State Government of Victoria (Department of Transport and Planning), n.d.).
The NMR is home to a number of State and Regionally Significant Industrial Precincts being “strategically located land for major industrial development” (VPA, 2023). However, the region is simultaneously experiencing population growth and increase in residential development (State Government of Victoria (Department of Transport and Planning), n.d.).
In light of the significant industrial and economic context of the region, the rapid urban expansion signals the need to strategically retain land for industrial uses. This is necessary to support the local economy and provide employment opportunities for future populations.
The ABW Site itself is surrounded by a number of industrial features (see fig. 37), specifically:
• the freight rail network, connecting the Somerton and future Beveridge Intermodal Freight Terminals;
• existing and planned State Significant Industrial Precincts (to the west) and a number of light industrial precincts (to the south-west) (see also fig. 36);
• the proposed Cleanaway Melbourne Energy and Resource Centre (waste-to energy facility) (to the north-east); and
• a number of existing and proposed future quarries / extractive industries (to the north, east and southeast).
While these surrounding industrial land uses may act as constraints to the redevelopment of the ABW Site, the industrial character of the region, as well as the planning policy context, provides important strategic guidance for the re-imagined ABW Site.
This section of the report focuses on case studies explored to provide insights into successful quarry rehabilitation and re-use. Each case demonstrates how previously operated quarry sites can be transformed into vibrant, multi-functional spaces. Stemming from diverse problem contexts and geographical backgrounds, these projects offer insights into sustainable rehabilitation practices, ecological considerations, renewable energy generation, landscape and community integration, and the potential for adaptive re-uses.
By researching and analysing such diverse projects, we gain clarity on how different re-use strategies can be implemented to achieve lasting environmental, social and economic benefits. The key lessons extracted from each of these case studies provide suggestions that can be applied to guide the remediation process of the ABW Site.
In addition to the case studies, this section also looks at alternative approaches to quarry remediation. Looking beyond the business as usual strategies, ambitious methods such as regenerative approaches to nature positive solar farming, whole life cycle carbon assessments, and multi-dimensional community space construction theories align with the principles and vision to the sustainably regenerate the ABW Site.
Location: Cornwall, UK
Site area: 15 hectares (1,50,000 sqm)
Project year: 2001
Type of quarry: China Clay
Quarry reuse: Eco-tourism attraction, education, performance space
Summary: The Eden Project is a renowned example of innovative quarry re-use, centred around the themes of regeneration, tourism, environmental management, conservation, sustainability, entertainment, and education (Blewitt, 2015). The abandoned clay quarry was regenerated as an environmental and education complex, with a keen focus on ecological restoration and community engagement. It aimed at demonstrating possibilities of remediating degraded environments while raising public awareness about the challenges of climate change, habitat destruction, and resource management.
Key lessons: Developing the Eden project has helped gain a lot of benefits, not only in terms of environmental restoration and conservation, but also in terms of enhancing the economy of the region (through eco-tourism). By adopting sustainable methods of restoration (e.g. soil rehabilitation using organic material, and efficient energy generation), and providing opportunities for the community to indulge in the upkeep of the project and conservation practices, Eden illustrates how degraded environments can be repurposed to support sustainable urban development (Belousova, et al., 2021).
Application to ABW Site: The Eden Project inspires to take on ecological conservation and biodiversity preservation, themes that can be adopted for the remediation of the ABW Site. Acknowledging that quarry actions have an impact on the ecology of the region, and presence of Merri Creek and the galgi ngarrk Grasslands Reserve (areas of significant ecological and Indigenous cultural value), provides an opportunity to regenerate the ecology of the region, while also offering opportunities for community involvement.
Location: Benghajsa, Birżebbuġa, Malta
Site area: 2.9 hectares (29,000 sqm)
Project year: 2017
Type of quarry: Hardstone
Quarry reuse: Solar farm
Summary: Equipped with over 7,600 photovoltaic panels and the capacity to power about 760 households, the Benghajsa quarry is an example of how degraded industrial lands can be re-used to contribute to broader renewable energy goals (Xuereb, 2020). By re-purposing the abandoned quarry-cum-landfill, the project not only minimises the ecological impact of the site’s former industrial use, but also contributes to Malta’s strategies for achieving its renewable energy goals (Malta Today, 2020), and improving sustainability.
Key lessons: Along with the core theme of utilising the former industrial site to generate clean energy, another key principle that the Benghajsa Solar Farm adopts is an attempt to preserve the region’s ecology side-by-side. This is evident from the planting of indigenous plants (specifically, olive trees) around the periphery of the site as a means of restoring the degraded environment and conserving the ecology around the site (Xuereb, 2020).
Although a great initiative, the location however raises questions about the fit of the project within its context. Being an area of touristic value, the project possibly produces negative visual impacts, suggesting the importance of context in planning.
Application to ABW Site: Considering the scale (size) of the ABW site, and drawing on the principles of the Benghajsa Solar Farm, i.e. utilising already degraded lands to generate renewable energy, there is immense potential to explore the generation of clean energy to support the proposed uses and make the ABW site a self-sufficient, energy-efficient development. Subsequently, this also offers an opportunity for the ABW site to contribute to Victoria’s renewable energy targets.
Location: Pemulwuy, NSW, AUS
Site area: ~ 156 hectares (1.56 mil sqm)
Project year: 2007
Type of quarry: Rock (blue metal)
Quarry reuse: Industry and business park
Summary: The Greystanes Southern Employment Lands (former Prospect Quarry site) is a case study demonstrating that post-extractive industrial sites provide an opportunity to ‘unlock’ land to generate economic and industrial development opportunities.
Key drivers for the redevelopment of the Prospect Quarry included the rezoning of the Prospect Quarry site and surrounding areas under NSW planning policy - to recognise the employment and economic growth occurring in Western Sydney (State Government of NSW, 1999). The redevelopment of the quarry site was also supported by complementary surrounding land uses, including the broader Western Sydney Employment Area, adjacent industrial land use and access to major motorways (State Government of NSW, 2007).
Key lessons: The case study highlights:
• how the re-use of former quarry sites can contribute to economic growth, by strategically developing land for employment and industrial purposes; and
• how strategic planning policy context and surrounding site features are key drivers for determining the future use of a quarry site.
Application to ABW Site: Like the Greystanes SEL case study, the redevelopment of the ABW Site will embrace its existing industrial character (as a site which contributes to manufacturing and development in Victoria) and that of the surrounding area, including major freight and road access and industrial facilities (see pg. 27). This will be achieved through the strategic retention of land on the ABW Site for industrial uses. In contrast to the Greystanes SEL case study, the strategy to establish industrial uses on the ABW Site is prospective and informed by the strategy policy context, rather than responsive to changes in planning policy (i.e. responding to the rezoning of the ABW Site).
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Site area: ~85 hectares (850,000 sqm)
Project year: 2010
Former use: Landfill
Site reuse: Natural park, renewable energy (biogas)
Summary: Vall d’en Joan is a case study in the sustainable remediation and restoration of a landfill site - to recreate an ecological environment which enables the “creation of primary ecosystems” (Maria Biddau et al., 2020, p. 16) and returns an abandoned landscape for public use. The site was regenerated as a natural park, featuring drainage systems for irrigation (treatment of contaminated ground water) and collection of biogas for energy.
Transformation of the landfill enabled the urbanised area to be returned back to the community (Maria Biddau et al., 2020). In doing so, the re-use was informed by the characteristics of the site, including its topography and location within the Garraf Natural Park (Maria Biddau et, al., 2020). The use of native species for environmental restoration enabled the natural landscape to develop organically over time and re-integrate into the neighbouring parkland (Divisare, 2012).
Key lessons: Remediating post-industrial and extractive sites provides an opportunity to educate the public about the restoration of industrial or ‘abandoned’ landscapes and demonstrates how these sites can positively contribute to sustainable urban regeneration (Divisare, 2012).
Application to ABW Site: As a key focus of the VDJ case study in returning the former landfill site to the community for public use, the strategy for the regeneration of the ABW Site prioritises how the future use of the site can benefit the community. This will be achieved by leveraging the scale of the ABW Site to deliver different functions for community useincluding areas for recreational purposes, for community engagement and innovation and employment opportunities.
Location: Matera, Italy
Site area: 15 hectares (150,000 sqm)
Project year: Under construction
Type of quarry: Calcite
Quarry reuse: Eco-tourism attraction, Energy generation; innovation functions
Summary: The city of Matera in southern Italy is famous for its “Sassi”, the ancient residential area carved into the rock. Just two kilometres from Matera is a disused quarry that is this quarry. The project combines new technologies with traditional systems to set an example in the areas of nature conservation, energy self-sufficiency and sustainable tourism.
The project consists of three buildings: the Quarry Terraces, which contain research and residential areas; the plateau building, which houses the conference and wellness centre; and the Rock Restaurant at the quarry entrance. The project focuses on integration with the natural environment and promotes research into green energy and sustainable development.
Key lessons: The terraced landscape of the quarry, which was created by the quarrying of stone, is being renatured through targeted interventions with plants from the region. As a result, the wound in the landscape heals, and land is given back to nature with the spectrum of plants typical of this region (Wolf et al., 2021).
As the world shifts towards sustainable alternatives through renewable energy production from photovoltaic (PV) systems (solar farms), numerous benefits including low carbon emissions, and the potential to enhance land productivity and economic output (especially on presently degraded lands can be observed. These systems also highlight the potential to contribute to environmental restoration by supporting biodiversity conservation (CPA, 2024).
Since the ABW site is already degraded land, and given its existing industrial character as well as the proposed uses, sharing the solar farm with agricultural activities (grazing, and food production) may not be the best idea. However, it does provide an opportunity to integrate the land use with biodiversity and habitat conservation, considering the location of the proposed (area adjacent to proposed solar farm), and surrounding conservation areas (marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands).
In view of this, regenerative approaches such as Conservoltaic Systems [Conservation + voltaic (solar farms)] (Nordberg & Schwarzkopf, 2023), are explored to maximize conservation efforts in addition to solar energy generation. These systems aim to minimize environmental impacts, regenerate landscapes, and promote biodiversity while benefiting solar farms by lowering ambient temperatures, dust accumulation, and solar panel deterioration (CPA, 2024).
Application to ABW Site: The solar energy in the case study was built along the terrain, allowing it to be utilised on the loose soil after quarrying activities. In the Italian remodelling, the various laboratory buildings follow the terraced topography, which is something this remodelling needs to learn from. As reserves are depleted, a new material process research and manufacturing site is established within the site to transition the quarry to another model at the end of its life cycle. Facilities to take the shape of vertical factories to reduce impact/ footprint on site.
1. Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Enhancement
By integrating solar farms with native vegetation restoration, the ABW site exhibits its potential to support local ecosystems (i.e. become a nurturing habitat for local flora and fauna) and improve soil health.
2. Growling Grass Frog Habitat Protection
Being a part of the protected area for the Growling Grass Frog (DEPI, 2013), adopting conservoltaic practices can help create or restore wetland habitats near solar installations, and support energy generation and the preservation of critical species habitats in line with the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (BCS).
3. Soil and Water Management
Regenerative approaches (involving planting native species around solar panels) can help to restore soil fertility, reduce erosion, and enhance water retention, turning the ABW site into a self- sustaining ecosystem, while supporting the broader principles of re-nature and re-connect.
4. Climate Action and Sustainability
Solar farms with conservation goals can contribute to carbon reduction, while generating renewable energy and maintaining ambient temperatures for biodiversity to thrive. The ABW Site thus becomes not only a nature-positive, sustainable energy source, but also part of a broader climate mitigation strategy.
In light of the carbon impact of the built environment (Wong, 2024), the design, construction and operation of built form is key to unlocking and achieving net-zero carbon emissions for the ABW Site.
A ‘whole lifecycle carbon’ assessment (WLCA) is an alternative assessment tool which could promote the reduction of carbon impact of the ABW Site, and the proposed industrial precinct in particular.
This is because undertaking a WCLA can:
• provide a comprehensive understanding of the carbon emissions from the entire lifecycle of a building (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors [RICS], 2024) (see fig. 55) - i.e. not just from an energy consumption perspective; and
• encourage strategic and long-term planning in the design and construction processes to manage carbon emissions across the building’s life (Waldon et al., 2020).
Relevantly for the industrial precinct, undertaking a WCLA could encourage the design and construction of buildings which use of low-carbon materials (such as by recycling site-derived materials) and construction methodologies (RICS, 2024).
From an implementation perspective, WCLA should occur in the early stages of the project. This is because the design, of the industrial precinct for example, will inform the longer term development outcomes and use of the built form. Taking embodied carbon, durability and recycling capacity at the end of the building’s life (RICS, 2024) into consideration during the concept and design stages increases the likelihood of achieving broader sustainability and carbon emission reduction objectives.
For the ABW Site, undertaking WCLA to reduce carbon impact of built form is also strongly aligned with the objective to integrate the industrial functions of the site with the surrounding conservation areas and parklands.
The health impact factors of urban community public space systems have gradually expanded from a single physiological factor to a multidimensional integration of physiological, psychological, environmental, human, social, and cultural factors, showing a phased evolution. The health needs of residents have changed with economic development, public health conditions and historical events, from individual physiological needs to the multi-dimensional integration of “comprehensive health”, reflecting the trend from “single dimension” to “multi-dimensional integration” (Guan, 2023).
Community public spaces not only focus on the direct role of physical space, but also emphasise the potential impact of psychological and social factors on health. The area has a long history of mining. Accordingly, the current community space function of the ABW Site is relatively weak. In the future, following the redevelopment of the ABW Site in accordance with the vision and guiding principles, the ABW Site will be able to meaningfully contribute as a community public space - including through the conservation areas, urban parklands and community hub.
Application of Multi-dimensional to the ABW Site
1. Land consolidation
For the ABW Site, the first thing to do is to make it a “community space”. This requires organising the existing land, determining what land is suitable for community purposes, as well as what areas will be designated specifically for environmental restoration
2. Step-space
When treating the stepped topography of the area caused by quarrying, consider the spatial role that can be played by each step surface.
3. Definition
As shown in the figure on the right, if a community center is to be established on the ABW Site in the future, the needs of both the culture and the surrounding residents need to be considered. This is also reflected in the definition of “Multidimensional”.
4. Limitations
The theory does not specifically address environmental protection, and it is limited in its application to the strategy to integrate the southern area of the ABW Site with Merri Creek and surrounding natural landscape.
•
by:
• selecting materials with high recycling capacity.
The re-imagined Austral Bricks Wollert site is a dynamic precinct that sustainably integrates industry, renewable energy, ecology and biodiversity to foster manufacturing innovation, enhance climate resilience and support the community and economy of the growing Northern Metro Region.
Informed by the context and key characteristics of the ABW Site and surrounding areas, the vision and guiding principles for the re-imagined ABW Site centre around three overarching themes:
1. environment;
2. industry; and
3. energy.
The vision and principles align with the broader strategic objective to highlight the opportunities for post-extractive industrial land to:
• meaningfully contribute to sustainable urban regeneration and ecological restoration; and
• deliver broader community benefit.
Central to the redevelopment strategy is reconciling the tensions between the significant environmental and ecological value that the ABW Site contributes (from a biodiversity and Indigenous perspective), as well as the economic and industrial opportunities which can be derived from the ABW Site’s re-use.
The vision and guiding principles provide direction to the strategies and actions with the aim of resolving these seemingly conflicting land uses in order to deliver a reimagined precinct which successfully supports industrial, community and environmental functions.
Promote climate resilience, protect and enhance biodiversity and deepen the relationship to Country by extending the qualities of the surrounding natural environment, including the galgi ngarrk Grassland Reserve and Merri Creek, to the ABW Site.
Embrace the existing industrial character of the ABW Site and the surrounding area and features to provide future innovation and employment opportunities to support the Northern Metro Region.
Transform the ABW Site into a net-zero carbon precinct, through the implementation of low-carbon technologies and on-site renewable energy generation to power the precinct and recycling of site-derived waste and materials.
This section of the report documents the key strategies and actions for the delivery of the ‘re-imagined’ ABW Site.
These strategies and actions are aligned with the three central themes for the redevelopment of the ABW Site –environment, industry and energy - which has translated to the following three key strategies:
1. ecology and environment;
2. industry and employment; and
3. energy.
While these strategies are distinct, the sub-strategies and actions contained within have been developed to complement and support each of the other strategies – to work towards achieving the overarching vision to regenerate the ABW Site.
The key moves (depicted on fig. 61 overleaf) for the redevelopment of the ABW Site will be demonstrated through the delivery of:
1. Conservation areas – to protect and support ecology and biodiversity within and surrounding the ABW Site and strengthen the connection of the ABW Site to Country;
2. Urban parkland and recreation facilities – to deliver the ABW Site back to the community for use, engagement and education;
3. Industrial precinct – to provide employment and economic opportunities to support the growing Northern Metro Region, as well as to highlight the potential to sustainably integrate industrial land uses with the natural environment; and
4. Solar farm – to transform the ABW Site to make a positive contribution to the transition to net-zero carbon emissions by powering the industrial precinct with renewable energy.
Rather than being distinct and separate land uses within the same precinct, the strategies and actions have been developed to ensure that the different elements of the ABW Site can both sustainably co-exist and support the other functions.
The redevelopment strategy for the ABW Site is ambitious, and a marked departure from the business as usual approach to environmental and urban development. However, the long-term nature of the project provides significant opportunities to experiment and innovatetowards achieving a new or ‘re-imagined’ status quo for sustainable urban regeneration of post-extractive sites.
The ecology & environment strategy focuses on the renaturing of the ABW Site to promote and support biodiversity and the natural landscape surrounding and within the site. A key outcome of the E&E strategy is to deliver the ABW Site back to the community and the Traditional Owners, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples. The E&E strategy highlights the opportunities to regenerate post-extractive land for higher-order environmental land uses.
The industry & employment strategy focuses on delivering a ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct. Leveraging the ABW Site’s historical and contemporary contribution to manufacturing in Victoria, the strategy aims to promote sustainable manufacturing production and practices. The I&E plan is supported by and aligns with the other strategies - by prioritising biodiversity and net-zero outcomes in the design, construction and operation of the precinct.
The energy strategy focuses on transforming the ABW Site from extraction to energy production, enabling the site to transition to a net-zero precinct. The key actions involve on-site renewable energy generation and recycling site-derived waste to power and build the industrial precinct. To support the environmental and ecological strategy, the energy plan forefronts regenerative solar farming approaches to incorporate biodiversity into the urban environment.
To facilitate the redevelopment of the ABW Site, the broader strategy involves implementing changes to the current planning controls - using the standard tools available under the Victorian Planning Provisions, as well as those utilised for the development of growth areas.
The planning - or ‘Business as Usual’ (BAU) - strategy (summarised in the table below and depicted in fig. 68 right) focuses primarily on facilitating the preferred land uses and mitigating adverse impacts to the ABW Site (particularly from an environmental perspective).
Specifically, the planning strategy aims to:
1. align the planning controls more strongly with the overarching sustainability objectives, as well as the existing conservation and cultural heritage values of the ABW Site;
2. facilitate the regeneration of the ABW Site for conservation, biodiversity and recreation purposes; and
3. promote the development of a sustainable industrial precinct powered by renewable energy. # Proposed ABW Site use
1. Conservation / biodiversity areas
2. Public park / recreation
3. Solar farm
The rationale and challenges arising from the BAU strategy are discussed further with respect to each of the specific strategies.
4. Industrial precinct
• Rezone area to Public Conservation and Resource Zone (PCRZ).
• Apply Public Acquisition Overlay (PAO).
• Rezone area to Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ).
• Apply PAO.
• Prepare Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) for ABW Northern Lands (proposed energy generation facilities and industrial precinct).
• Rezone area to Urban Growth Zone (UGZ).
• As per proposed planning controls described in item 3 above.
• Apply Design and Development Overlay (DDO) to industrial precinct.
• Prepare Industrial Design Guidelines to be incorporated into PSP and DDO.
There are inherent limitations in the planning tools available to achieve the strategies for the ABW Site and align with the overarching vision and guiding principles. Accordingly, this has motivated the development of more ambitious strategies and actions, informed by the case studies and alternative approaches explored in chapter 3 - in particular, with respect to regenerative land approaches, actions to achieve low-carbon outcomes in the built form and environmentally and ecologically conscious solar farming. All overlays which currently apply to the ABW Site will be maintained.
The remediation, restoration and redevelopment of the ABW Site will be completed over a long time period (+ 30 years). Given the size and location of activities on the ABW Site, a number of key planning and preparatory activities can be programmed to commence while the quarry is still operational.
Community
Engagement on future direction of ABW Site
Short term (0-15 years)
Consultation with stakeholders (including Traditional Owners) about integration of conservation areas into marram baba Regional Parklands
Medium term (15 - 30 years)
Commence environmental restoration of ABW ‘Southern Lands’
Investigate feasibility of ABW Site redevelopment (industrial precinct and renewable energy)
Commence planning scheme amendment process
Rezoning PPRZ + PCRZ/ Public Acquisition Overlay
Precinct Structure Plan / Rezoning (UGZ)
Commence development of urban parkland
Commence development of community and reconciliation hub
The activities programmed into the indicative time line are the high-level / foundational activities that are included in the ABW Site redevelopment strategy.
These activities are further broken down in specific implementation time lines for each of the broader strategies.
In addition to the status of the quarry, this indicative implementation strategy and time line has been developed taking into account:
• the size of the ABW Site (and distinct north and south regions);
• the length of time which will be required to remediate and / or renature the site;
• that preparing a PSP and amending a planning scheme is a time intensive process; and
• the number of stakeholders who will be involved in the planning and direction of the future of the ABW Site (including as depicted against the implementation plan below).
Brick manufacturing / kiln facilities decommissioned
Long term (30+ years)
Commence environmental restoration of ABW ‘Northern Lands’
Government acquisition of ABW Site areas (conservation + parklands)
Concepts and designs for industrial precinct to provide Whole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment.
Commence development of renewable energy (solar farm)
Commence development of sustainable manufacturing vertical factory (pilot project)
ABW Site through the years...
Guiding Principle:
Renature & Reconnect: Extend the surrounding natural environment, including the Craigieburn Grassland Nature Conservation Reserve and Merri Creek, to the ABW site, restore nature, protect and enhance biodiversity, and at the same time try to return the land to the Aboriginal people.
To achieve these goals, the following strategy is required, and a step-by-step time plan is also required:
i. Enhance the landscape and environmental connectivity between the southern part of the project and Merri Creek and the eastern side of the reserve.
ii. Achieve circulation design in the project to create a comfortable public space.
iii. Consider the coordinated development of ecological reconstruction and industry and energy while taking into account the protection of cultural heritage.
iv. Integrate the southern side as part of Marrambaba Merri Creek Park to strengthen the national connection.
Prepared by Qinglan Yang
Enhance the landscape and ecological connectivity between the southern part of the project and Merri Creek and the eastern side of the reserve.
Action 1.1: Remodel the soil in the area according to the environment and organisms to make it suitable for planting vegetation.
First, the exposed soil in the south needs to be assessed, as it is difficult to plant vegetation directly. To achieve landscape continuity, it can be covered with organic or synthetic materials to restore soil moisture, reduce wind erosion and soil erosion, and thus enhance fertility. A sandification control model is recommended, with trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants planted in a ratio of 10%, 80% and 10% respectively. Through mixed symbiosis, soil conditions can be improved to lay the foundation for subsequent measures.
Action 1.2: The southern tour route should be reasonably constructed, with connections to the motorway and parking points clearly marked.
The quarry is surrounded by green space to the east and west, and the highway to the north and south. Therefore, it is necessary to divide the car and pedestrian areas to maintain overall consistency. The original southern entrance, which has been connected to the highway for many years and is no longer the main entrance, is planned to be transformed into the main entrance to the southern nature reserve. The abandoned parking lot on the east side will be reused, and the former quarry site will be covered with vegetation.
Action 1.3: Diverting the water (Meri Creek) to provide a better habitat for the site’s creatures.
The eastern side of the site is bordered by Merri Creek, which is an important environmental protection element and the habitat of many aquatic animals. If a part of the creek’s water flow is diverted into the conservation area through channels or artificial streams and into an artificial pool in the south, it will have an impact on the ecological restoration of this area. Moreover, as a creek flowing from north to south, it will also increase flood resilience if it is connected to the artificial pool. Using the electricity from the solar power station in the north, this pool will also play a role in irrigating the plants.
Action 1.1: Remodel the soil in the area according to the environment and organisms to make it suitable for planting vegetation.
Action 1.2: The southern tour route should be reasonably constructed, with connections to the motorway and parking points clearly marked.
Action 1.3: Diverting the water (Meri creek) to provide a better habitat for the site’s creatures.
One of the goals of this transformation is to integrate the southern area into Merri Creek Regional Parkland, while also providing more public space to ensure human care for the surrounding community.
Action 2.1: Rezone the zones to PPRZ and PCRZ.
As the southern area needs to be designated as an environmental protection area, and the current land use is not suitable for this purpose since the area is classified as suz4 (special use zone 4). PCRZ is the preferred planning zone for areas that need to be protected for biodiversity purposes, as it effectively protects biodiversity values and establishes protected areas for conservation purposes. Restrictive zoning indicates the intended use of the area and helps guide the future development of the conservation area. Rezoning to PCRZ returns the land to public ownership and use. PPRZ zoning is intended to identify areas for public recreation and open space while protecting and preserving areas of significance in appropriate locations.
Action 2.2: Taking advantage of the terrain of the steps, different public space scenes are arranged on the steps of different heights.
Due to site space constraints and technical limitations, it is a good decision to turn the landfill into a terraced park. On this basis, from bottom to top, the park facilities area, greenhouse plant cultivation area, and open-air local plant cultivation area can be arranged. The rainwater on the terraces can also be partially diverted into the catchment, which, in addition to the flow of the Merri Creek, is another effective form of water for vegetation, forming an internal cycle and reuse. The park facilities area can be arranged with tree pits, public benches, pop-up stores, badminton courts and other businesses, while the greenhouse crop planting area can adopt a single greenhouse structure similar to the spatial network of the Garden of Eden to conform to the terrain. Further research is needed for the specific architectural design.
Action 2.1: Rezone the zones to PPRZ and PCRZ.
Action 2.3: Determining the functions of the community center after a needs survey of the residents and workers in the area.
According to the ordinance content of the Hume planning scheme and the Whittlesea planning scheme, the area east of the UGZ will be located a short distance to the east and west outside the site, and as a new community, the area in the Whittlesea planning is expected to have 34,888 people, while the southern The public space within the environmental protection zone will obviously be a stepping stone for this part of the population, while the open space in the north-west will become a group of industrial factory land, and the workers who work permanently in these places will also be the target of the population in the community centre. Therefore, it is indispensable to interview and investigate the needs of these people in the process of soil restoration and initial planting of vegetation, because the project will have a multi-purpose building, including energy, industry, community centre, etc., and the purpose of the energy industry and the community centre is not mutually exclusive is certainly an important principle, and it is also essential to understand the needs of the target audience clearly.
Action 2.4: Create paths of a pleasant scale in the cycling and walking areas.
The standard width of a two-way cycle track is generally 4m, followed by a 1m tree planting ridge, with space for pedestrians inside each step. The layout should be different for roads close to artificial waterways.
Action 2.2: Taking advantage of the terrain of the steps, different public space scenes are arranged on the steps of different heights.
Action 2.3:Determining the functions of the community center after a needs survey of the residents and workers in the area.
Action 2.4: Create paths of a pleasant scale in the cycling and walking areas.
Since the objectives include not only environmental protection and ecological restoration, but also energy and industry, how to make these elements coexist together is also a consideration, and it is also necessary to protect the local culture.
Action 3.1: Guide rainwater runoff. Use the power of the solar station to irrigate.
Rainwater runoff from the terraced fields is properly utilized and collected in pools formed by the terrain, and irrigation is carried out using electricity from the solar power plant on the north side. Rainwater harvesting is one of the important means to achieve the principle of environmental protection. By harvesting rainwater from the sides of the terraces and then recycling and reusing this rainwater and collecting it in pools, it can be used for irrigation within the park.
Action 3.2: Plant drought-resistant native plants.
The succession of the site’s ecosystem is maintained by planting drought-resistant native plants, mainly in the green space outside the steps. The introduced vegetation includes a range of thorns, similar shrubs and trees around the creek, as well as eucalyptus and saltbush.
Action 3.3: Preserve some old factories in the southeast for development as industrial heritage sites.
According to the satellite map, the old factory in the southeast was already the site for further processing of stone and loading of trucks in the 1980s. Therefore, an important part of the renovation is the transformation of the existing old sheds. The spaces that were once used for brick production have been transformed into a series of processing and exhibition spaces. If there are parts that are difficult to renovate due to disrepair, they should become part of the parking facilities.
Action 3.4: Attempt to contact the Aboriginal party to return the southern region to the traditional owners.
To return the park to the management of the traditional owners, it is necessary to support the self-determination priorities of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation (WWCHAC) through the establishment of a partnership and financing model, and gradually achieve legislative reform from land use rights to management, granting WWCHAC the right to manage the park, while appointing it as a member of the management committee and the main decisionmaker, with the ultimate goal of achieving full management of the land by the traditional owners.
Action 3.1: Guide rainwater runoff. Use the power of the solar station to irrigate. Action 3.2: Plant drought-resistant native plants.
Action 3.3:Preserve some old factories in the southeast for development as industrial heritage sites.
Action 3.4: Attempt to contact the Aboriginal party to return the southern region to the traditional owners.
A. 1.1: Remodel the soil in the area according to the environment and organisms to make it suitable for planting vegetation.
A. 1.2: The southern tour route should be reasonably constructed, with connections to the motorway and parking points clearly marked.
A. 1.3: Diverting the water (Meri creek) to provide a better habitat for the site’s creatures.
A. 2.1: Rezone the zones to PPRZ and PCRZ..
Remediation of ABW ‘Southern Lands’ Remediation of ABW ‘Northern Lands’
Quarry operations cease
A. 2.2: Taking advantage of the terrain of the steps, different public space scenes are arranged on the steps of different heights.
A. 2.3: Determining the functions of the community center after a needs survey of the residents and workers in the area.
A. 2.4: Create paths of a pleasant scale in the cycling and walking areas.
A. 3.1: Guide rainwater runoff. Use the power of the solar station to irrigate.
A. 3.2: Plant drought-resistant native plants.
A. 3.3: Preserve some old factories in the southeast for development as industrial heritage sites.
A. 3.4: Attempt to contact the Aboriginal party to return the southern region to the traditional owners.
In the rest of the area, plant drought-resistant native plants.
The southern tour route should be reasonably constructed, with connections to the motorway and parking points clearly marked & Create paths of a pleasant scale in the cycling and walking areas.
Taking advantage of the terrain of the steps, different public space scenes are arranged on the steps of different heights.
Introducing water resources from Merri Creek provides a better habitat for nearby creatures.
Preserve some old factories in the southeast for development as industrial heritage sites & Parking points.
The industrial and employment strategy is motived by:
• the strategic benefit of utilising the ABW Site to contribute to industrial land supply – for employment opportunities, to support economic growth and to promote equity in the Northern Metro Region (Grodach et al., 2023)
• the potential for industrial land to support biodiversity and environmental values (Grodach et al., 2023).
The proposal to establish an industrial precinct on the ABW Site is informed by the Northern Metro Region strategic policy context and objectives. The approach is driven by the vision and the guiding principles and seeks to maximise the opportunities for innovation in sustainability and low-carbon / net-zero design, construction and operation of built form.
The strategy will utilise the planning tools available (as set out in the BAU strategy), as well as mandating best practice in environmentally sensitive industrial design and development. To be a truly sustainable and innovative industrial precinct, the industrial & employment strategy contains higher ambition actions, informed by alternative approaches for industrial development (e.g. new industrial urbanism (Hakuta & Ben-Joseph, 2022), eco-industrial precincts (World Bank, 2021)) and for the design and construction of buildings (e.g. Whole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment (refer pg. 36)).
The three key sub-strategies combine financial and regulatory mechanisms with planning and design tools to facilitate the establishment of a sustainable industrial precinct:
Strategy 1: Establish a regulatory framework to set the ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct up for success.
Conduct preliminary investigations and implement appropriate planning controls and ownership and land tenure models to facilitate the development of industrial precinct in line with the vision and principles for the redevelopment of the ABW Site.
Strategy 2: Balance industrial opportunities with sustainability and ecology through planning and design.
Implement planning and design controls and guidelines to ensure that the design, construction and operation of the industrial precinct meets net-zero carbon emission objectives and positively contributes to the ecological and biodiversity values surrounding and within the ABW Site.
Strategy 3: Foster sustainable manufacturing innovation activity
Implement a strategy to encourage operations of industry which are aligned with the ethos and vision for the redevelopment of the ABW Site. Provide incentives and opportunities for businesses to experiment, innovate and learn about sustainable manufacturing.
1.Establish a regulatory framework to set the ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct up for success
Action 1.1: Investigate feasibility of ABW Site industrial precinct
A feasibility study is a critical early-stage action to support the delivery of the industrial precinct (United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, n.d.). A feasibility study will further investigate the context and motivations for developing an industrial precinct on the ABW Site. This will support the proposed BAU strategy, including to prepare a Precinct Structure Plan and rezone this area of the ABW Site to UGZ (as discussed in action 1.3 below), as well as the proposed land tenure and ownership model (as discussed in action 1.2 below).
Action 1.2: Implement a diverse ownership and land tenure model which aligns with the vision for the ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct
The ABW Site is currently privately owned. The strategy for the industrial precinct involves implementing a diverse ownership structure - where private, public and community owners can balance competing and complementary interests and agendas. This is to ensure that a broader range of site users have access to and can guide the direction of the industrial precinct (Cities of Making, n.d.a). Community-based or not-for-profit ownership, which is not constrained by economic or political agendas, is key to driving the sustainability and innovation focus of the industrial precinct. Further, the contribution of public and private ownership will support the development of the industrial precinct (including through capital contributions), and provide opportunities to develop partnerships and collaborate between owners.
A diverse land tenure structure (including ownership, leaseholds and rentals) will also be implemented at the industrial precinct.
Action 1.1: Conduct a feasibility study for the development of the industrial precinct.
This is intended to accommodate the financial and business needs of different organisations and to encourage a variety of site uses (Cities of Making, .d.b). For example, longer-term tenure will support businesses that require significant upfront capital investment or private financing (Cities of Making, n.d.b). Shorter-term tenure (e.g. rentals) will accommodate start-up and small businesses (who may have smaller capital bases), as well as facilitate flexibility of the use of the industrial precinct over the longer term (Cities of Making, n.d.b).
Action 1.3: Amend planning controls to align with the strategic direction for the ABW Site
As set out in the BAU strategy (refer pg. 48), a PSP will be prepared for the area of the ABW Site containing the renewable energy generation facilities (solar farm) and industrial precinct. The area will also be rezoned to UGZ, requiring that development will occur generally in accordance with the PSP.
The rationale for using a PSP (rather than maintaining the current SUZ4 zoning) is to provide guidance as to the preferred direction of growth and the nature of activities / land uses, built form and other public spaces in the industrial precinct and energy generation facilities. Consistent with the principles of new industrial urbanism, flexibility in the long-term planning and development of the industrial precinct and renewable energy facilities is necessary to enable the precinct to respond to community, employment and economic needs (Hatuka & Ben-Joseph, 2022). This is important in the context of the long time frame over which the redevelopment of the ABW Site will occur.
The PSP also provides an opportunity to align the planning controls with the vision and guiding principles for the redevelopment (as set out within this document) - to emphasise and facilitate the achievement of sustainability, environmental and low-carbon ambitions.
Action 1.2: Investigate land tenure and ownership models which align with strategic objectives and principles.
Action 1.3: Prepare a Precinct Structure Plan and rezone to Urban Growth Zone to facilitate industrial development.
Action 2.1: Implement design controls and guidelines to achieve environmentally sustainable development outcomes
The BAU Strategy identifies that a Design and Development Overlay (DDO) will be applied to the area of the industrial precinct (refer also page 48). The purpose of the DDO is to regulate the design of built form in the industrial precinct. This will complement and reinforce the objectives and strategies contained in the PSP (and enforced under the UGZ), to ensure that built form and site layout forefronts environmentally sustainable design.
A recent example of this is the City of Melbourne’s proposed planning scheme Amendment C376 (Sustainable Buildings), which incorporates ESD themes such as water, urban greening and energy efficiency requirements (City of Melbourne, n.d.). While the amendment has not yet been approved, it provides useful regulatory precedent to guide the drafting of proposed DDO for the industrial precinct and inform of the process for implementing the DDO.
Action 2.2: Prepare and implement design guidelines and urban greening strategy to “rewild” (Osborne, 2020) the industrial precinct
Industrial Design Guidelines will provide guidance for achieving best practice environmentally sustainable development outcomes in the design and layout of the industrial precinct – in a manner which aligns with strategic and sustainability objectives for the ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct and the broader ABW Site.
An urban green strategy for the industrial precinct will focus on incorporating biodiversity “into the urban fabric” (Garrard et al., 2018). The strategy will forefront biodiversity sensitive urban design (BSUD) principles to ensure that the built form and infrastructure contained within the precinct make a positive contribution to ecology and biodiversity (Garrard et al., 2018).
In contrast to traditional industrial areas - which generally do not prioritise environmental sustainability (see figs. 87, 88 + 89) (Grodach et al., 2023; United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, 2021) – the industrial design guidelines and a comprehensive urban greening strategy will enable the industrial precinct to both leverage and support the important ecological and biodiversity values surrounding and within the ABW Site.
Key design, built form and BSUD strategies are depicted right (see fig. 90a + 90b).
as a regulatory tool to support and facilitate ESD outcomes in the built form.
connect the precinct to the surrounding natural landscape
industrial precinct conditions*
Action 2.3: Require Whole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment for built form
Whole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment (WLCA) is an important tool to understanding carbon impact and which enables consideration of long term environmental and sustainability outcomes in the design and construction of buildings (RICS, 2024). While WCLA is not currently mandated in Victoria (Wong, 2024), the framework aligns with the net-zero objectives for the ABW Site and encourages strategic and sustainable planning and design of buildings to minimise the carbon impact of built form on the natural environment.
The low carbon opportunities for developers will be supported by the renewable energy facilities (solar). However, the industrial and employment strategy mandates that developers also undertake comprehensive carbon emissions and carbon impact assessment to facilitate the achievement of site-wide net-zero carbon emissions objectives.
Every development proposal for the industrial precinct will be required to be supported by a WLCA which measures the carbon emissions across the lifecycle of the building. In addition to statutory obligations to provide construction and environmental management plans (including under the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (State Government of Victoria, 2013), developers will be required to document strategies for monitoring and minimising carbon impact through the use of materials and construction methodologies, as well as a plan for decommissioning of the building at the end of life (to promote circular economy).
Action 2.4: Invest in a pilot project to demonstrate the sustainable design and construction principles which will characterise the industrial precinct.
Investing in a pilot project provides an opportunity to test and show case the innovative and sustainable design and construction methodologies which are embedded in the industrial design guidelines and urban greening strategy for the industrial precinct (as discussed in action 2.2).
As a longer-term action (see pg. 74), a vertical factory is proposed as a precedent built form project for the industrial precinct. The selection of this project recognises the ABW Site’s history of contributing to manufacturing and construction in Melbourne. It also signals the future direction of the ABW Site as a key location for sustainable and innovative design and manufacturing.
The concept design for the vertical factory pilot project is depicted right (fig. 91).
Action 2.3: Require whole lifecycle carbon assessment to be undertaken for each building in the industrial precinct.
Action 2.4: Invest in a pilot project which demonstrates ambitious low carbon and biodiversity sensitive urban design outcomes.
Action 3.1: Prepare and implement an “industrial ecosystem” strategy - to align the operations and ethos of businesses with the ABW Site sustainability vision
The clustering of industries as an “industrial ecosystem” (Hatuka & Ben-Joseph, 2022, p. 63) provides opportunities to share learnings, create interdependencies and increase efficiencies between organisations and industries (Hatuka & Ben-Joseph, 2022; World Bank, 2021).
In addition to the focusing on the types of industries which will be targeted for the industrial precinct (e.g. manufacturing, research and education), the industrial ecosystem strategy will provide a framework for ensuring that the ethos of the organisations which form the industrial precinct is aligned with the environmental and sustainability objectives for the ABW Site.
The industrial ecosystem strategy will encourage crosscollaboration and economies of scale - from both a resources and knowledge sharing perspective - between organisations to maximise the potential to achieve innovative and sustainable outcomes (Hatuka & BenJoseph, 2022).
Action 3.2: Provide incentives to promote sustainable manufacturing practices
Financial incentives are critical to support research and innovation in industry (Cities of Making, n.d.c). A key element of this strategy is to investigate and advocate for incentives (including private financing, government subsidies / grants, tax incentives) to support and facilitate sustainable manufacturing activities within the industrial precinct.
Action 3.1: Prepare an “industrial ecosystem” strategy to encourage clustering of sustainable manufacturing activity.
The ownership and land tenure model (see action 1.2) has been proposed as part of the industrial and employment strategy - as an alternative incentive model businesses operating in the industrial precinct. For example, diverse land tenure will support business through the provision of space (i.e. rental opportunities) (Cities of Making, n.d.b). Financial and other place-based incentives will support businesses to undertake research and development which complements the broader ABW Site strategies and objectives, as well as the operations of other industries within the industrial precinct.
Action 3.3: Leverage the industrial precinct operations to educate about sustainable manufacturing innovation practices
Industrial precincts, through a combination of the different participants and operations operating in close proximity, can provide valuable resources for education purposes (Cities of Making, n.d.d). The research and development and ongoing operations of the industrial precinct provides opportunities to educate industry and the community about the sustainable manufacturing techniques and practices.
The co-working and exhibition space will serve as a hub to bring people within the industrial precinct (see fig. 93 depicted right), as well as the broader community, together for formal and informal interactions, knowledge sharing and education.
Action 3.2: Provide financial and spatial incentives to foster innovative practices and grow the industrial precinct.
Action 3.3: Provide opportunities and spaces for formal and informal education and innovation to occur.
“An inclusive hub helps facilitate knowledge exchange, nuture a place-based network of markers, encourage collaboration and provide businesses with space to discuss collective problems and opportunities.”
(Cities of Making, n.d.d)
A.1.1: Investigate feasibility of ABW Site industrial precinct.
A.1.2: Investigate land tenure and ownership models which align with the vision for the ‘re-imagined’ industrial precinct.
A.1.3: Commence process to amend planning controls for industrial precinct (prepare PSP and rezone to Urban Growth Zone).
Engage with industry and community about opportunities for the industrial precinct.
Remediation of ABW ‘Southern Lands’ Remediation of ABW ‘Northern Lands’
Quarry operations cease
A.2.1: Commence planning scheme amendment process (DDO) to mandate environmentally sustainable development.
A2.2: Prepare Industrial Design Guidelines / Urban Greening Strategy.
A.2.3: Concepts and designs for built form to provide Whole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment.
A.3.1: Investigate opportunities for financial incentives to promote sustainable manufacturing practices.
A.3.2: Prepare an Industrial Ecosystem Strategy - to encourage ‘clustering’ of complementary industrial operations and activities.
A.3.4: Leverage the industrial precinct to educate about sustainable manufacturing innovation practices
Commence development of sustainable manufacturing vertical factory
Investigate feasibility of ABW Site industrial precinct and suitable land tenure and ownership models.
Implement ambitious lowcarbon requirements for built form, in addition to the on-site renewable energy generation.
Implement sustainable manufacturing pilot project (vertical factory).
Prepare PSP + rezoning to UGZ for proposed industrial precinct and energy generation.
Prepare Industrial Design Guidelines + Urban Greening Strategy to promote environmentally sustainable + biodiversity sensitive urban designto “re-wild” the industrial precinct.
Encourage clustering of complementary sustainable manufacturing industries and leverage the industrial precinct to educate about sustainable manufacturing innovation practices.
Guiding Principle:
Energy and Efficiency: Transitioning from extraction to net-zero through energy production and efficiency.
As the ABW Site gradually shifts away from its quarrying operations and into its remediation phase, there is an opportunity to achieve net-zero targets by producing its own energy and adopting efficient methods of construction, production and maintenance (in line with the conservation and industrial principles). To align with this, we propose the following objectives:
i. Managing and timing the phasing of the remediation process for the ABW Site to achieve energy and efficiency goals, while considering its transition from ongoing quarrying activities to proposed future industrial precinct and other uses.
ii. Transition to renewable energy by implementing on-site renewable energy generation facilities.
iii. Explore integration of renewable energy generation with ecological and biodiversity to support the conservation plans for the ABW Site.
iv. Investigate opportunities for recycling site-derived waste and materials, including via the industrial precinct and other on-site uses.
Prepared by Rochelle Fernandez
Dedicate a portion of the expansive ABW Site for setting up a Solar farm to support the energy needs of the industrial precinct and contribute to Victoria’s renewable energy targets.
Action 1.1: Investigate energy needs for the industrial precinct and the potential to export energy to the grid.
Assess the energy requirements of the industrial precinct in order to determine the capacity of the solar farm and its potential to export the excess energy (if generated) to the energy grid.
Simultaneously, involve with landowners and work alongside other relevant stakeholders to secure developer contributions for the future development of the solar farm.
Action 1.2: Prepare a Precinct Structure Plan for the proposed industrial and energy portions of the ABW Site, and rezone these areas to an Urban Growth Zone (UGZ).
Rezoning the site to a UGZ facilitates the use and development of the region in accordance with the PSP. Implementing a PSP for the proposed industrial and energy portions of the site help to guide growth and activities (solar farm, in this case), while aligning with strategic planning policies.
While the PSP process could take place before the end of quarrying operations, rezoning to a UGZ is subject to the PSP being approved.
Action 1.3: Conduct a solar feasibility study considering the site’s use, scale, and best practices for integration with other land uses and ecological systems.
Evaluate the solar potential of the site (solar irradiance levels, land availability, potential shading, etc), as well as collaborate with essential stakeholders (investors, developers, local community members, engineers, grid operators, etc.) for the designing and layout of the plant. This would also include considering energy storage solutions such as batteries to store excess solar energy generated during peak sunlight hours.
Action 1.4: Investigate and explore current technology associated with solar energy to efficiently support the industrial uses and coexist with the ecological systems.
Explore different solar panel technologies (bi-facial solar panels, Perovskite solar cells, etc.) to maximise efficient energy generation that supports the industrial precinct, while also ensuring that the ecological systems are not disturbed in the process.
Facilitate advocacy and seek external funding from potential stakeholders for future development of the solar energy plant.
Action 1.1: Investigate energy needs for the industrial precinct and potential to export energy to the grid.
Action 1.2: Prepare a PSP for the proposed industrial and energy portions and rezone these areas to a UGZ.
Action 1.3: Conduct a solar feasibility study while considering integration with other land uses and ecological systems.
Action 1.4: Investigate and explore current solar energy technology to efficiently support the industrial uses and co-exist with the ecological systems.
Explore ways to incorporate ecology and biodiversity restoration along with solar energy generation, given the current conditions (degraded character) of the ABW Site, as well as to support the proposed conservation strategies.
Action 2.1: Assess the impacts of solar generation on biodiversity.
Involve relevant government and regulatory bodies as well as environmental advocacy stakeholders (such as ecologists and environmental scientists) to conduct assessments to evaluate the impacts of solar energy generation on local flora and fauna.
Action 2.2: Implement and test pilot conservoltaic projects.
Partner with local agricultural and conservation stakeholders to pilot conservoltaic projects on a small scale once the solar farm starts functioning, to see if desirable outcomes are achieved or not, and gather feedback for further improvements.
Action 2.3*: Commit to pilot projects and expand areas of integrated solar generation and biodiversity conservation.
Extend conservoltaic practices to more areas within the solar farm, while continuing to monitor and assess impacts on biodiversity and altering practices as necessary.
Action 2.4*: Foster community involvement and enhance engagement.
Create volunteer opportunities for community members to participate in restoration, and foster a role for reflection, evaluation, and experimentation with energy generation through community involvement, along with establishing feedback mechanisms to ensure that the proposed strategy remains responsive to community needs and preferences.
Action 2.1: Conduct impact assessments to assess solar energy generation impacts on biodiversity.
Action 2.2: Experiment with pilot conservoltaic projects.
Action 2.3: Expand areas of integrated solar energy generation and biodiversity conservation.
Action 2.4: Enhance community engagement and involvement with energy generation and ecological restoration.
Sustainably manage site- derived waste (generated from on-going quarrying activities) by recycling and re-using them to construct the proposed future uses (eg. industrial precinct structures) and support a circular economy.
Action 3.1: Investigate measures to maximise on-site waste material re-use.
Identify initiatives to recognise and catalog usable materials such as bricks, aggregate, and sand from site operations. Subsequently, explore measures to implement them in the construction of proposed uses on site, such as structures in the proposed industrial precinct, and landscaping projects.
Action 3.2: Develop a framework plan supporting efficiency and sustainability in construction.
Establish guidelines for future developments within the ABW Site to utilise recycled materials where applicable. The framework might also include incentives offered to developers for adopting sustainable building practices.
Action 3.3: Pilot projects in innovative use of site materials and waste in constructing the industrial precinct structures.
Encourage and seek investments to fund innovative pilot projects that utilise the recycled site material and waste, as well as support sustainable and efficient construction within the ABW Site.
Action 3.4: Repurpose the Austral Brickworks Design Center to support sustainability and efficiency.
Consult with relevant stakeholders (architects, designers, developers, etc.) on the adaptive re-use of the existing Austral Brickworks Design Center for industrial purposes to minimise carbon footprints (associated with the construction of new buildings), reduce waste generation (caused by demolition), and support sustainable building practices within the ABW Site.
Action 3.1: Investigate measures to maximise on-site generated waste material re-use. Action 3.2: Establish a framework plan to support efficiency and sustainability in construction.
Action 3.3: Invest in pilot projects that sustainably re-use and recycle site-generated material.
Constructed using innovative re-use of site-derived materials and waste, powered by renewable energy generated on-site.
Action 3.4: Repurpose the Austral Brickworks Design Center for industrial purposes and support sustainability and efficiency.
A. 1.1: Investigate energy needs for the industrial precinct and potential to export energy to the grid.
A. 1.2: Prepare a PSP for the proposed industrial and energy portions and rezone these areas to a UGZ.
A. 1.3: Conduct a solar feasibility study
A. 1.4: Investigate and explore current solar energy technology to efficiently support the industrial uses and co-exist with the ecological systems.
A. 2.1: Conduct impact assessments to assess solar energy generation impacts on biodiversity.
A. 2.*: Expand areas of integrated solar energy generation and biodiversity conservation.
Remediation of ABW ‘Southern Lands’ Remediation of ABW ‘Northern Lands’
(15 - 30 years) Quarry operations cease
A. 2.2: Experiment with pilot conservoltaic projects.
A. 3.1: Investigate measures to maximise on-site generated waste material re-use.
A. 2.4*: Enhance community engagement and involvement with energy generation and ecological restoration.
A. 3.2: Establish a framework plan to support efficiency and sustainability in construction.
A. 3.3: Invest in pilot projects that sustainably re-use and recycle site generated material.
A. 3.4: Repurpose the Austral Brickworks Design Center for industrial purposes and support sustainability and efficiency.
PSP + rezoning to UGZ for proposed industrial and energy portions of ABW Site.
Develop a renewable energy generation plant (solar farm) to support the industrial precinct.
Repurpose the Austral Brickworks Design Center sustainably for industrial purposes.
Integrate solar energy generation with biodiversity and ecological conservation.
Implement pilot conservoltaic projects.
Invest in pilot projects that sustainably re-use and recycle site generated material.
Note: * Subject to success of A. 2.1, A. 2.2.
In an environment where available land for urban development and green open spaces is becoming increasingly contested, post-extractive industrial sites provide a critical opportunity for sustainable urban regeneration (Lee et al., 2022).
This strategic report provides a framework for the redevelopment of Austral Bricks Wollert to become an case study in exemplary sustainable quarry regeneration.
Fundamentally, the redevelopment of the ABW Site seeks to embrace both the strong industrial character of the Wollert area and its connections to Country and the natural environment. The vision and principles aim to reconcile the tensions between seemingly competing objectives of protecting environmental and biodiversity values and supporting industry and economic growth.
Each strategy and action has been devised to facilitate the sustainable integration of traditionally incompatible land uses and will ensure that this post-extractive site can be delivered back to the community. The pathways set out in this report will transform the quarry into a precinct showcasing environmental regeneration, sustainable manufacturing and industrial innovation - as well as positively contributing to Victoria’s transition to net-zero carbon emissions.
This is the Re-imagined Austral Bricks Wollert
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Figure 1: Merri Creek
Source: Marchingo, E. (2021, May 28). The best Melbourne places for adventures. Beat. https://beat.com.au/how-to-capitalise-on-your-daily-hour-of-exercise-because-we-all-need-the-fresh-air/.
Figure 2: Reimagined Austral Bricks Wollert
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 3: Indicative artist’s impression (Adapted from gencraft)
Source: adapted from Gencraft. n.d. Accessed October 10, 2024. https://gencraft.com/generate
Figure 4: galgi ngarrk (Craigieburn Grasslands)
Source: Merri Creek Management Commitee. 2023. galgi ngarrk (Craigieburn Grasslands). https://www.mcmc.org.au/environmental-education/northern-nature-creek-connections/special-sites/merri-creek/craigieburn-grasslands
Figure 5: Merri Creek
Source: Diadem. n.d. marram baba Merri Creek Parklands: A natural sense of place. https://diadem.co/projects/marram-baba-merri-creek-parklands/
Figure 6: Artist's impression of the (proposed) Cleanaway Melbourne Energy and Resource Centre Waste to Energy Facility
Source: The North Central Review. 2024. Waste to energy proposal for Wollert. https://ncreview.com.au/2024/05/07/waste-to-energy-proposal-for-wollert/
Figure 7: Amazon MEL8 Sorting Facility
Source: Google maps. Accessed October 20, 2024. https://maps.app.goo.gl/VJwHRrmsiTnB2Rat5
Figure 8: Bunnings Craigieburn
Source: Star Weekly. 2022. Bunnings to open more vax pop-ups. https://northern.starweekly.com.au/news/bunnings-to-open-more-vax-pop-ups/
Figure 9: Northern Quarries (Conundrum Holdings) (nearby ABW Site)
Source: Conundrum Holdings. n.d. Nothern Quarries. https://conholdings.com.au/northern-quarries/
Figure 10: View of the city from Wollert’s community
Source: Homeshelf. n.d. Arramont. https://www.homeshelf.com.au/estates/new-home-estate-arramont-wollert-vic-3750/1636
Figure 11: Hume Freeway in Wollert
Source: Google Earth Pro.
Figure 12: Wollert context map
Image Credit: Qinglan Yang (using base image from VicPlan)
Figure 13: Wollert in perspective
Image Credit: Qinglan Yang
Figure 14: galgi ngarrk Craigieburn Grasslands
Source: Merri Creek Management Commitee. 2023. galgi ngarrk (Craigieburn Grasslands). Retrieved October 24, 2024. https://www.mcmc.org.au/environmental-education/northern-nature-creek-connections/special-sites/merri-creek/craigieburn-grasslands
Figure 15: Merri Creek
GiveNow. n.d. "Merri Creek Management Committee Inc." Retrieved October 14, 2024. https://www.givenow.com.au/organisation/public/1297
Figure 16: Map of cultural heritage sensitivity areas
Image credit: Eliza Kane and Rochelle Fernandez (using base images from Nearmap and Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register and Information System). Source: State Government of Victoria (Aboriginal Victoria). (n.d.). ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register and Information System’. https://achris.vic.gov.au/#/ onlinemap.
Figure 17: Plan Melbourne 2017-2050
Source: State Government of Victoria (Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning). 2017. “Plan Melbourne 2017 - 2050.” https://www.planning. vic.gov.au/guides-and-resources/strategies-and-initiatives/melbournes-future-planning-framework.
Figure 18: Draft Northern Metro Land use Framework Plan
Source: State Government of Victoria (Department of Planning and Transport). n.d. “Summary: Draft Northern Metro Region Land Use Framework Plan”. Accessed October 15, 2024. https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/guides-and-resources/strategies-and-initiatives/melbournes-future-planning-framework
Figure 19: Melbourne Growth Corridor Plans
State Government of Victoria (Growth Areas Authority). 2012. "Growth Corridor Plans - Managing Melbourne's Growth." https://vpa-web.s3.amazonaws. com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Growth_Corridor_Plan_Managing_Melbournes_Growth.pdf
Figure 20: marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands Future Directions Plan
Source: State Government of Victoria (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action). 2023. “marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands Future Directions Plan 2023.” https://www.exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/investing-in-nature/suburban-parks-program/large-suburban-parks/marram-baba-merri-creek-regional-parklands
Figure 21: Austral Bricks Wollert- Contextual Site Map
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 22: Brickworks Design Center
Source: Brickworks Building Products. n.d. The Case Studies: Wollert. https://buildforliving.com.au/case-study/wollert/
Figure 23: Summerhill Complex
Source: McLean, Laurie. 2020. Peter Royston Walkley (1945-2011): National Mapping 1967-1992. https://www.xnatmap.org/adnm/people/aabout/peewee%20walkley/PEEWEE.htm
Figure 24: galgi ngarrk (Craigieburn Grasslands)
Source: Merri Creek Management Commitee. 2023. galgi ngarrk (Craigieburn Grasslands). https://www.mcmc.org.au/environmental-education/northern-nature-creek-connections/special-sites/merri-creek/craigieburn-grasslands
Figure 25: Amazon MEL 8 (Sorting Facility)
Source: Google maps. Accessed October 20, 2024. https://maps.app.goo.gl/VJwHRrmsiTnB2Rat5
Figure 26: ABW Site vs. Melbourne Cricket Ground (Scale comparison)
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 27: Site section A-A (refer to fig. 21)
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez and Noah Stone
Figure 28: Map of planning zones
Image credit: Eliza Kane and Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 29: Map of planning overlays
Image credit: Eliza Kane and Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 30: Eucalyptus forest along the creek needs to be protected
Source: State Government of Victoria (Department of Energy, Enviroment and Climate Action). n.d. Grassy eucalypt woodland. https://www.msa.vic.gov.au/ plants-animals-and-ecosystems/grassy-eucalypt-woodland
Figure 31: Growling grass frog is a specifically protected species
Source: State Government of Victoria (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action). 2023. “Growling Grass Frog.” May 3, 2024. Accessed November 1, 2024. https://www.msa.vic.gov.au/plants-animals-and-ecosystems/growling-grass-frog
Figure 32: Environmental and ecology context map
Image Credit: Qinglan Yang and Rochelle Fernandez
Figure 33: Austral Bricks Wollert- Geological Context
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap and QGIS mapping)
Figure 34: Map- Geological Survey of Victoria, 1997
Source: Geological Survey of Victoria. n.d. Melbourne SJ 55-5 Edition 2. https://gsv.vic.gov.au/SearchAssistant2/details?q=internal_id:29374
Figure 35: Northern Metro Region
Image credit: Eliza Kane (adapted from State Government of Victoria (Department of Transport and Planning), 2024)
Figure 36: Nearby Cranbourne industrial area
Source: GoogleMaps. Accessed October 17, 2024.
Figure 37: Industrial context map
Image credit: Eliza Kane and Rochelle Fernandez
Figure 38: The Eden Project, UK
Source: Esprit Drone Services. 2021. The Eden Project. https://www.espritdroneservices.co.uk/the-eden-project/
Figure 39: Benghajsa Solar Farm, Malta
Source: Malta Independent. 2020. Benghajsa 2,400kW solar farm powering 760 households. https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2020-10-12/business-news/Benghajsa-2-400kW-solar-farm-powering-760-households-6736227737
Figure 40: Greystanes Southern Employment Lands, Australia (NSW)
Source: Urban Development Institute of Australia New South Wales. n.d. Quarry at Greystanes by Dexus. https://www.udiansw.com.au/quarry-at-greystanes-by-dexus/.
Figure 41: Vall d’en Joan, Spain
Source: Gooood. 2012. Vall d'en Joan Landfill Landscape Restoration, Barcelona / Batlle Roig Arquitectes: The transformation of the landfill shows people how society should treat the environment today. https://www.gooood.cn/vall-den-joan-batlle-i-roig-arquitectes.htm?lang=cn
Figure 42. Oasis of Matera, Italy
Source: Wolf D. Prix & Partner. n.d. Oasis of Matera In the heart of the quarry. Coophimmelblau. https://coop-himmelblau.at/projects/oasis-of-matera/
Figure 43: Site Plan (Eden Project, Cornwall)
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 44: View of the geodesic domes, stage and visitor center
Source: GoConstruct. 2023. The construction of the Eden Project in Cornwall: An in-depth look. https://www.goconstruct.org/why-choose-construction/ whats-happening-in-construction/the-construction-of-the-eden-project-in-cornwall-an-in-depth-look/
Figure 45: Site Plan (Benghajsa Solar Farm, Malta)
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 46: Aerial View of the former quarry and landfill turned Solar Farm.
Source: Malta Independent. 2020. Benghajsa 2,400kW solar farm powering 760 households. https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2020-10-12/business-news/Benghajsa-2-400kW-solar-farm-powering-760-households-6736227737
Figure 47: Aerial image of Greystanes Southern Employment Lands, 2024 Image credit: Eliza Kane (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 48: Bird's eye view of Greystanes Southern Employment Lands Uncredited. Urban Development Institute of Australia New South Wales (n.d.). Quarry at Greystanes by Dexus. https://www.udiansw.com.au/quarry-at-greystanes-by-dexus/. Retrieved September 1, 2024
Figure 49: Aerial image of Vall d'en Joan natural park, 2024 Image credit: Eliza Kane (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 50: Vall d'en Joan Image credit: Jordi Suroca. Source: Architizer. n.d.. Landscape restoration of the Vall d’en Joan landfill site, Garraf, Spain. https://architizer.com/projects/landscape-restoration-of-the-vall-den-joan-landfill-site/
Figure 51: Matera Oasis Project (Matera) Image credit: Qinglan Yang (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 52: View from inside the Matera quarry
Source: Wolf dPrix. n.d. “Oasis of Matera - In the heart of the quarry” Archello. Accessed October 20, 2024. https://archello.com/project/ oasis-of-matera
Figure 53: Concept Diagram (adapted from Nordberg & Schwarzkopf, 2023).
Source: Nordberg, Eric J. & Lin Schwarzkopf. 2023. Developing conservoltaic systems to support biodiversity on solar farms. Ecological Society of Australia. https://www.ecolsoc.org.au/?hottopic-entry=developing-conservoltaic-systems-to-support-biodiversity-on-solar-farms.
Figure 54: Atwater & Eastwood Solar Sites, Minnesota, USA (solar-pollinator habitats)
Source: Huber, Marguerite. 2024. Insect populations flourish in the restored habitats of solar energy facilities: In less than five years, insect abundance tripled. Argonne National Laboratory. https://www.anl.gov/article/insect-populations-flourish-in-the-restored-habitats-of-solar-energy-facilities.
Figure 55: Diagram of carbon emissions across the building lifecycle (adapted from Materials and Embodied Carbon Leaders Alliance, 2022 and Steinman, J et al., 2022)
Image credit: Eliza Kane (adapted from: Materials and Embodied Carbon Leaders Alliance (MECLA). (2022, May 17). The MECLA Dictionary of Carbon. https://mecla.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/MECLA-Glossary-Dictionary-of-Embodied-Carbon-final-17052022.pdf; Source: Steinmann, Jacob, Martin Röck, Xavier Le Den, Karen, Allacker, Karen, and Thomas Lützkendorf,. 2022. Whole life carbon models for the EU27 to bring down embodied carbon emissions from new buildings. Ramboll. https://7520151.fs1.hubspotusercontentna1.net/hubfs/7520151/RMC/Content/Whole-life-carbon-models-Review-of-national-legislative-measures.pdf.
Figure 56: Development of community space Image credit: Qinglan Yang (adapted from Xu, F. 2023. Research on the Development of Foreign Community Public Space System from the Perspective of Comprehensive Health https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369422955_Research_on_the_Development_of_Foreign_Community_Public_Space_System_from_the_Perspective_of_Comprehensive_Health
Figure 57: Terraced park arranged according to the topography, New Zealand Source: Pinterest. n.d. Stonefield Volcanic Park. https://au.pinterest.com/pin/822047738224237916/
Figure 58: Collingwood Yards - a creative precinct with non-profit management and ownership Source: Collingwood Yards. n.d. "Our Organisation." Retrieved October 24, 2024. https://collingwoodyards.org/about-us/our-organisation.
Figure 59: Artists’ impression of the Arden Precinct, a proposed ‘net-zero’ precinct in Melbourne, VIC Victorian Planning Authority produced in Development Victoria. n.d. "Arden." Retrieved October 24, 2024. https://www.development.vic.gov.au/projects/ arden?page=overview
Figure 60: Agrivoltaic/ Conservoltaic practices involving the community. Source: Henderson, Audrey. 2024. How a ‘farmer-first’ approach could lead to more successful agrivoltaics projects. Energy News Network. https://energynews.us/2024/08/19/how-a-farmer-first-approach-could-lead-to-more-successful-agrivoltaics-projects/
Figure 61: Masterplan for the Reimagined Austral Bricks Wollert Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figures 62 + 63: Architectural impression of the ABW vertical factory Image Credit: Noah Stone
Figures 64 + 65: Architectural impression of the ABW co-working and exhibition space Image Credit: Haruna Kim
Figures 66 + 67: Architectural impression of the ABW Community, planning and reconciliation hub Image Credit: Tomas Ackerley
Figure 68: Map of proposed planning controls (BAU Strategy)
Image Credit: Eliza Kane and Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 69: ABW Site - 1981
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 70: ABW Site - 2002
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 71: ABW Site- 2015
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 72: ABW Site- 2024
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Google Earth Pro)
Figure 73: Stage 1: Conservation Areas
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 74: Stage 2: Urban Parklands+ Recreation Areas
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 75: Stage 3: Solar Energy Plant
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 76: Stage 4: Industrial Precinct Structures
Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 77: Entrance and footpath at the Tangshan Quarry, China. Source: Source: Gooood. 2019. Nanjing – Tangshan Mine Park, Jiangsu / Zhang-Tang Landscape. https://www.gooood.cn/nanjing-tangshan-quarry-parkchina-by-zt-studio.htm
Figure 78: Terraced park arranged according to the topography, New Zealand Source: Pinterest. n.d. Stonefield Volcanic Park. https://au.pinterest.com/pin/822047738224237916/
Figure 79: Merri Creek Trail South, Northeast Melbourne Source: Source: Trail Navigator Victoria. n.d. Merri Creek Trail South. https://www.trailnavigator.com.au/walks/247-merri-creek-trail-south
Figure 80: Key moves of ecology and environment strategy Image Credit: Qinlang Yang (using base image from Nearmap)
Figures 81 + 82: Image of the Prospect Quarry transformed into the Greystanes Southern Employment Lands in Sydney, NSW Source: Boral (@Boral). 2023. "Have you ever wondered what can be achieved with a quarry site that has reached the end of its economic life?" Facebook. March 31, 2023
Figures 83 + 84: Collingwood Yards, a creative arts precinct in Melbourne VIC Source: Collingwood Yards. n.d. "Our Organisation." Retrieved October 24, 2024. https://collingwoodyards.org/about-us/our-organisation.
Figures 85 + 86: Artists’ impression of the Arden Precinct, a proposed ‘net-zero’ precinct in Melbourne, VIC Sources: MGS Architect. n.d. "Arden Urban Renewal Precinct." Retrieved October 24, 2024. https://mgsarchitects.com.au/projects/urban-design/arden-urban-renewal-precinct; Victorian Planning Authority produced in Development Victoria. n.d. "Arden." Retrieved October 24, 2024. https://www.development. vic.gov.au/projects/arden?page=overview
Figure 87 + 88 + 89: Existing industrial area nearby ABW Site Sources: Realcommercial.com.au. n.d. "Warehouse, Factory & Industrial Property For Lease in Cranbourne West, VIC 3977." Retrieved November 2, 2024. https://www.realcommercial.com.au/for-lease/cranbourne-west-vic-3977/industrial-warehouse/; Nearmap; Google Earth Pro, retrieved November 1, 2024.
Figure 90a: Site map of industrial precinct Image Credit: Eliza Kane (adapted from drawings produced by Noah Stone)
Figure 90b: Section AA of proposed industrial building (refer fig. 90a) Image Credit: Eliza Kane (referencing drawings produced by Noah Stone)
Figure 91: Architectural render of vertical factory pilot project Image credit: Noah Stone
Figure 92: Site section depicting vertical factory and raised ground footprint Image credit: Noah Stone
Figure 93: Architectural drawing of co-working and exhibition building Image credit: Haruna Kim
Figure 94: Map of key moves for the industrial site Image credit: Eliza Kane and Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)
Figure 95: Western Downs Green Power Hub, Queensland. Source: The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory. 2022. Australia’s largest solar farm scores it's first century. Queensland Government. https:// statements.qld.gov.au/statements/95982
Figure 96: Agrivoltaic/ Conservoltaic practices involving the community. Source: Henderson, Audrey. 2024. How a ‘farmer-first’ approach could lead to more successful agrivoltaics projects. Energy News Network. https://energynews.us/2024/08/19/how-a-farmer-first-approach-could-lead-to-more-successful-agrivoltaics-projects/
Figure 97: Innovative pilot project (Community Hub) utilizing recycled bricks and waste materials. mage Credit: Tomas Ackerley
Figure 98: Energy and Efficiency Strategy - Key Actions Image Credit: Rochelle Fernandez (using base image from Nearmap)