THE $10 million redevelopment of the Manning buildings in Fremantle has been approved by the South West JDAP.

A late amendment by one of Fremantle council’s two representatives on the JDAP, Cr Jon Strachan, will see owner Gerard O’Brien required to commission an archaeological report before starting work.

Apart from descriptions of the site and details of any exploratory dig(s), the archaeological report will also have to include recommendations for heritage interpretation, if warranted.

The JDAP also agreed that money set aside for public artwork could instead be used to reinstate the building’s verandahs, which will please the Fremantle Society.

The developer will also have to satisfy council CEO Philip St John that the facade of the Majestic Theatre on High Street is adequately conserved and protected.

The project includes a micro-brewery and tavern with an alfresco area stretching towards the High Street mall.

Norm Wrightson Hairway owner Morteza Shojaee spoke against the proposal, saying it didn’t take the long history of his business into account.