A PETITION calling for the Fremantle Traffic Bridge’s retention has hit 5000 signatures after a decision to demolish it announced last week sparked a new wave of protest.

A proposal from Save Old Fremantle Bridge to turn the old structure into a tourist “high line” a la New York also caught the eye of Hollywood actress Kate Walsh, who told her 3.9 million Instagram and 1.9 million Facebook followers she was “so into this”. 

Her support for an $80 million film studio on Victoria Quay was crucial in getting a funding commitment from the McGowan government.

SOBA co-founder Isadora Noble said their community campaign was roaring along, but she was bitterly disappointed to discover Fremantle council hadn’t planned on making a submission when the WA Heritage Council deliberated on the demolition this week.

Nor would the council share its previous submissions to the group.

Fence-sitting

“As the only ‘interested party’ allowed to make a submission to the Heritage Council, the Western Australian community are relying on Fremantle council to protect the bridge from destruction,” Ms Noble said.

“Fremantle Council is not doing enough.”

Ms Noble said with Freo council fence-sitting, the group was planning to take some of its North Fremantle Primary School members and their colourful banners to the Heritage Council meeting to present the petition, which has just been officially lodged.

“Let’s see what St George Tce locals have to say about Freo Highline,” Ms Noble said.