Developer Morris Property Group (MPG) has engaged the local community with its $300 million Renaissance project in Manuka, even getting the area’s youngest residents involved.

Children from the MOCCA childcare centre in Manuka were given the chance to name the crane at the site, with the name ‘Ben’ drawn out of a hat by the lucky winner of a competition for the best coloured-in crane.

“The construction team (a number with their own children), thought ‘what a great way to get some of the community involved, MOCCA is opposite the site, and what kid doesn’t love a crane and construction?’” said MPG’s Slade Minson.

“The names were created by the children and then drawn out of a construction hard hat by the winner of the colouring competition.”

Mr Minson said it’s crucial for the company to be active and engaged with the local community, “as well as inclusive in terms of how we all want the community to be shaped for current and future generations”.

“The local community plays an important part in the development process,” he said.

As construction officially got underway in July, MPG director Barry Morris said Renaissance would inject some much-needed life into the area – something some locals have been calling for for some time.

Mr Morris said the arrival of new homeowners – young professionals, downsizers and first home buyers – would benefit businesses in an area that has been seen to be “falling off the vine” in recent years.

“The response from our community and our local homeowners has been overwhelming,” he says. “From a retailing point of view, a redevelopment of an area such as this is extremely important for the local traders.” 

According to Mr Minson, the crane marks a significant milestone for the project. Construction is “well and truly” underway with the excavation complete and the basement being built.

85% of stage one of the development has already sold, with construction expected to be complete late next year.