THE Raffles Hotel was ahead of its time and not the death of Applecross, as feared by opponents, says a report by the Committee for Perth.

The report, What We Thought Would Kill Us, argues the Raffles is a positive example of high-density housing and an accepted “local landmark”.

Committee CEO Marion Fulker says when the redevelopment of the former rock ‘n’ roll den into high-rise apartments was first presented to Melville city council in 2002, it shocked people who thought that style of housing was only for the inner city. Public consultation had to be extended because of the outrage the plan generated, and 85 per cent of the 1800 submissions were from opponents.

“Opinions are starting to change,” Ms Fulker said.