Fremantle's Cappuccino Strip Set for Major Revamp with New Sports Tavern
The City of Fremantle has given the green light to a controversial three-storey sports tavern on the former Hungry Jack's site, located at the corner of South Terrace and Essex Street. This decision comes after months of deliberation and design modifications, aiming to revitalise what has been described as a "dead part" of the iconic cappuccino strip.
Approval Amidst Design Concerns
At a council meeting on March 11, modified plans for the development were approved with a vote of six to three, following a proposal by Councillor Ingrid van Dorssen. This approval overruled recommendations from city officers to reject the project, who argued it would damage the central city heritage area and result in a "poor design outcome." The original application dates back to 2023, when the Metro Inner-South Joint Development Assessment Panel unanimously supported a $6.5 million sports bar by Signature Hospitality Group.
Key Design Changes and Community Feedback
The approved design includes several modifications from earlier versions:
- Removal of a basement and balcony on South Terrace and Essex Street
- Extension of a ground floor awning to cover the South Terrace entrance
- A slight reduction in building height
- Changes to colour schemes, adopting an "industrial tone"
- Redesigned windows and use of blackened steel for roof balustrades instead of glass
Sam Fisher, representing the applicants, noted that some criticisms contradicted previous feedback, but emphasised the amended design delivers a stronger outcome for this gateway site. Councillor van Dorssen praised the new look as "fantastic" and reflective of Fremantle's character, highlighting the overdue redevelopment of an "eyesore" location.
Council Debates and Future Implications
Mayor Ben Lawver acknowledged the design was not universally popular, stating, "I think the applicant knows that none of us are really enthusiastic about the design," but suggested council could use public realm improvements like trees to mitigate visual impacts. In contrast, Councillor Jemima Williamson-Wong opposed approval, arguing that such large-scale buildings come rarely and must uphold design quality to preserve Fremantle's heritage appeal.
Councillor Andrew Sullivan supported the decision, recalling the site's long history of underdevelopment, saying it has been a "dead part" of the cappuccino strip for decades. Others, like Councillor Frank Mofflin, focused on the economic benefits, believing the tavern will attract more visitors to Fremantle.
This approval marks a significant step in transforming a vacant lot into a vibrant community hub, though it continues to spark debate over balancing modern development with heritage conservation in one of Perth's most beloved neighbourhoods.
