Byron Bay boosts green cred with new upscale shopping complex

Media release - 5th September, 2016

The NSW North Coast tourist hub of Byron Bay is building on its reputation for sustainability and eco-awareness with one of the town’s most ambitious developments in decades – an innovative two-storey shopping complex boasting significant green credentials.

The Mercato on Byron development will employ the latest in sustainable design and technology, and aims to be the country’s first regional shopping complex to achieve a Five Green Star rating – making the development a leading example of environmental sustainability.

Established by the Green Building Council of Australia in 2003, Green Star is a voluntary rating system that assesses projects on their level of environmental sustainability. Research shows that Green Star-certified projects produce 62 per cent fewer greenhouse gas emissions and use 66 per cent less electricity than standard buildings.

“Mercato on Byron will perfectly align with Byron Bay’s culture, and is the result of consultation with the Byron Shire Council and the developer,” said Sophie Christou, Principal of Raine & Horne Byron Bay and leasing agent for the complex.

“Key elements in Mercato on Byron’s green rating will be the use of solar electricity, recycled materials, natural light and ventilation, and greywater harvesting throughout the complex,” added Ms Christou.

The development boasts a total floor space of 7895sqm set over two levels, with 321 underground car spaces including electric charging bays, as well as 24 motorcycle bays, bicycle parking, vertical gardens and outdoor dining.

“The complex will offer tenants a unique space to express themselves and an opportunity to flourish as part of an integrated urban marketplace,” said Ms Christou.

“Woolworths have already signed on as the anchor tenant, with a new store to be constructed on the ground floor of the complex, while other tenants include a renovated nine-auditoria Palace Cinema, Cicchetti Byron Bay and a handful of boutique specialty retailers and eateries.”

Expressions of interest have also been called for an artisan bakery, delicatessen, barber, cobbler, gourmet grocer, homewares, and a gallery and event space operator.

“Approximately 30 spaces are available for lease in the Mercato complex, from kiosks to larger stores, and tenants will be encouraged to incorporate natural and recycled materials, and living plants wherever possible, in keeping with the Byron Bay ethos,” noted Ms Christou.

Mercato on Byron is located on Jonson Street in the town’s most central retail district, and completion is scheduled for 1st December, 2017.

To find out more about Mercato on Byron, visit mercatoonbyron.com.au or call 02 6685 6588 / 0419 399 222.

-ENDS-

For further media information contact:

Sophie Christou, Principal, Raine & Horne Byron Bay on 0419 399 222

Andrew Harrington, National Communications Manager, Raine & Horne on 02 9258 5400