Heritage doesn’t have to mean history – transform your site into a thriving childcare centre!
Owning a heritage-listed site doesn’t mean development is impossible. At Mollard Property Group, we specialise in navigating complex heritage constraints to create high-quality early learning environments that respect and preserve historical significance.
Case Study: Moonee Ponds, Victoria
Mollard Property Group were engaged by Moonee Valley Racing Club to deliver a full turnkey solution, transforming a heritage-listed historic residence and garden into a high-end, 91-place early learning centre. Our team secured a quality tenant on a long-term lease, obtained planning permits, and managed the builder tender and construction process.
The project required careful navigation of heritage constraints, as the site included the former Club Secretary’s House, designed by architect HJ Wagstaff in 1973. This two-storey brick residence, blending Art Deco and Modern detailing, was complemented by a mature garden originally designed by the renowned landscape architect Edna Walling. Given its heritage significance, external paint and tree controls applied, and a permit was required for demolition, new construction, and substantial additional floor space to accommodate the childcare centre.
Our project team worked through a multitude of heritage constraints (interior and exterior of the building and landscape/gardens) to obtain planning permits and ensure a quality product was delivered in accordance with the Racing Club’s and the operator’s requirements, enabling the adaptive re-use of a vacant building and bringing it to life. Upon opening, the operator found themselves with a fully booked 100% waitlist. This centre later sold in 2019, achieving an incredible 5.29% net yield sales result.
This project stands as a testament to our ability to deliver innovative, high-quality early learning environments while respecting and preserving significant historical assets.
Full turnkey solutions – From initial planning to project completion
Tenant secured – Long-term lease with a high-quality operator
Planning permit acquisition – Overcoming heritage and regulatory challenges
Project & construction management – Oversight of the tender process and build execution
If you have a heritage-listed site and think development is too challenging, think again. Our expertise in planning, compliance, and construction management ensures your project reaches its full potential. Let’s discuss how we can turn your heritage property into a thriving childcare centre. Let’s Talk!