Development on the Royal George Hotel in East Fremantle site would be capped at seven storeys under a proposed Local Planning Scheme amendment to be advertised soon.
Planning Minister Rita Saffioti has requested Amendments 14 and 15 to the Town of East Fremantle’s Local Planning Scheme No.3 be readvertised for public comment.
The community is invited to have a further say on the Royal George Hotel site (Amendment 15) and future development on the ‘Roofing 2000’ site at the corner of Canning and Stirling highways (Amendment 14).
Modifications to Amendment 15 include limiting development on the Royal George Hotel site to a maximum height of seven storeys and a maximum plot ratio of 2:1, and that any development on the site is subject to review by the new State Design Review Panel.
Modifications to Amendment 14 provide for additional height on the northern portion of the site in exchange for the retention of existing open space and mature trees.
The amendments will be readvertised by the Town of East Fremantle.
The State Government sold the Royal George Hotel to Saracen Property Group on the condition the historic pub, built in 1903, be restored within three years as part of the site’s wider redevelopment.
As noted by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The Royal George Hotel is a Fremantle landmark and we are responding to widespread community interest about the future development of the site.
“The modifications to Amendment 15 will facilitate the restoration of the Royal George Hotel building and provide for appropriate development on the site to ensure it continues to be a significant heritage landmark.
“Modifications to Amendment 14 allow for more height in exchange for more open space. The additional height reflects the site’s location on a major transport route and to encourage higher densities close to transport corridors.
“I encourage all interested parties to contribute to the future of East Fremantle by making a submission on these amendments.”
As noted by Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk:
“I’m pleased the Minister has heard the community and struck the right balance.
“The Royal George will be restored to its former glory with sensible development befitting a heritage neighbourhood.
“After years of neglect, it’s a relief to know the Royal George will become the centrepiece of the Plympton Ward precinct once again.”
As noted by Bicton MLA Lisa O’Malley:
“The Royal George Hotel is a fine example of a classic corner pub and it is a great relief to see it will get the renovation it deserves.
“This part of East Fremantle has a very passionate community who treasure the historical significance of the area. I hope everyone can get behind this amendment and get involved when it is advertised by the local government.”
