Margaret Court Arena aces LEED Gold certification

Margaret Court Arena has become the first sport and entertainment arena in Australia to receive a LEED Gold certification, following its recent redevelopment. The venue was redesigned and built with a key focus on sustainability, in a project which was overseen by Lend Lease.

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system, developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), recognises buildings, homes and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained and operated for improved environmental and human health performance. It is said to be the most internationally recognised certification of its kind.

Margaret Court Arena achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at achieving high performance in sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and more. Key initiatives included:

• energy-efficient lighting and air-conditioning systems;
• an operable roof allowing air-conditioning and lighting systems to be reduced when conditions are favourable;
• re-use of existing structures;
• water-efficient fittings;
• sustainably sourced timber;
• recycling of waste generated in construction;
• a cool roof, which reflects the sun’s heat;
• shading overhangs that block summer sun but allow winter sun;
• rainwater-flushed toilets that are connected to the site-wide water harvesting system.

“We’re very proud of the fact MCA is the first sport and entertainment arena in Australia to receive this level of LEED certification,” said Brian Morris, CEO of Melbourne & Olympic Parks.

“This is now Melbourne & Olympic Parks’ second LEED certification, which demonstrates our commitment to sustainable practices and our intention to make the precinct one of the most sustainable sports and entertainment hubs in the world.”

Lend Lease was named Master Builder of the Year (Commercial) at the 2015 Master Builders Association of Victoria’s Excellence in Construction Awards for its work on the project. According to Joe Kokai, general manager of Lend Lease’s building business in Victoria, “The collaborative spirit and innovative thinking shared among project partners were key drivers that made this outstanding achievement possible.

“This achievement provides an excellent endorsement for industry to the push the boundaries and drive continual improvement and accountability in sustainable design, construction, maintenance and operations,” Kokai said.

Image credit: Peter Bennetts Photography.