A PROPOSED five-storey hotel for Pakenham Street in Fremantle’s West End sailed through a council committee this week.

Deemed “unapprovable” by mayor Pettit in November, the reworked application includes the partial demolition of a 1930s warehouse to make way for 73 apartments, a cafe, a conference room and a roof terrace.

Countering criticism of the lack of proposed car bays—a “car stacker” from an early iteration has been replaced with bike racks—Cr Jon Strachan says residents are more likely to use public transport and bikes rather than cars.

Cr Rachel Pemberton initially moved to amend the top floor, concerned that seeing the fifth storey from the street might change the feel of the conservation-listed area, but failed to win support.

Council planning and development director Philip St John acknowledged Fremantle Society concerns but says the plans are a better heritage outcome as the extra height allows the developer to preserve more of the facade.

“What we have now is a much better building and allows for the heritage facade to keep on living,” mayor Brad Pettitt said.  “I support Cr Pemberton’s intent, but the intent doesn’t work on this occasion.” Dr Pettitt promised it wouldn’t open the way for further changes to the West End.

by CLARE KENYON