Homeswest redevelopment of Fremantle Woolstores

Independent community consultation has indicated that the majority of Fremantle residents approve of the proposed Homeswest redevelopment of the Fremantle Woolstores. 

Housing Minister and Member for Fremantle, Jim McGinty, said the research results clearly represented a thumbs up for the redevelopment - which was designed to bring people back into the heart of Fremantle. 

"Interviews were carried out with 335 residents randomly selected from within the City of Fremantle and Town of East Fremantle, and the results show that 78 per cent of those canvassed indicated the building 'should be redeveloped' or 'favoured redevelopment'," Mr McGinty said. 

"Only 14 per cent objected to Homeswest's plans to convert the building for residential purposes." 

Mr McGinty said that when compared with the existing Woolstores building, the proposed redevelopment was also seen as significantly brighter, distinctive, fashionable, interesting and tasteful. 

"Two of the most common reasons people gave for liking the redevelopment were that the existing building was being restored and that the proposal was attractive," Mr McGinty said. 

"This is an acknowledgment that the building is a significant landmark in Fremantle and that the designs prepared by the architectural firms handling the project are sympathetic to its heritage values and at the same time aesthetically pleasing." 

Mr McGinty said another significant aspect of the survey had been the response to the perceived impact of the redevelopment on the City of Fremantle. 

"The majority of people held a positive view - including that the redevelopment would provide much needed housing and also increase trade for shops and businesses in the area. 

"The most common reason given for disliking the redevelopment was that it would cause parking problems - Homeswest has taken note of this perception and will ensure that this does not occur." 

Mr McGinty said the research was undertaken in line with a Homeswest commitment to enter into extensive community consultation before deciding on the final shape of the redevelopment. 

"Similar consultation has occurred over the redevelopment of the old West Australian Newspapers site in Palmyra and has resulted in modifications to the project in line with the wishes of nearby residents. 

"Encouraging people to air their views can only lead to greater harmony and understanding when any major development is undertaken by Homeswest," Mr McGinty said.