Melton council has been lauded for its support for new business development in a growth area.
At the recent Australian Property Institute’s awards night, judges said they were impressed with the council’s support for the Western Business Accelerator and Centre for Excellence (BACE) and the building’s six-star environmental rating.
Construction of the business incubator finished a year ago, and the centre is providing workplaces to support fledgling businesses, promoting sustainability, providing training, and researching and developing ways to boost employment in Melton.
Mayor Sophie Ramsey said it was a “great thrill” to win the institute’s Local Government Property award.
“There was a lot of competition for this award, with innovative projects from all over the state vying for the honour” Cr Ramsey said.
“So we’re delighted to be the council with it on proud display.
“The Western BACE, in Ferris Road, Melton South, has been open only a few months but has been successful beyond our wildest dreams as a business incubator. It has also set a benchmark for sustainable design and construction,” Cr Ramsey said.
The federal government contributed $14.62 million towards the $21 million building, which formally opened in May.
Western BACE has won a number of awards since construction finished, the latest being a Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria’s sustainable cities award.
Star Weekly is a tenant at Western BACE.
