THE Woolstores Ledge will be preserved after a deal was struck between skater advocates and developers to retain the iconic skate spot.

Human Urban, formally working under the name Hesperia, is redeveloping the Elders Woolstores on Cantonment Street and plans to revitalise the former portside icon as a multi-use site. 

Earlier this year, the Herald reported the Ledge was under threat from the development, prompting lobbying from Freo’s skating community. 

However, Human Urban announced this week that a “notable portion” of the ledge will be retained as part of the redevelopment, which will include residential, office, retail, and hospitality uses. 

• Rowan White. Photo by Dan McCabe

WA Skateboarding Association secretary Rowan White says the decision is “huge” for the skating community, who pride the Ledge as an internationally renowned skating location and an icon of Freo’s skating culture.

“After years of uncertainty and not quite knowing what’s going on, it’s just really exciting that we’ve managed to come to this conclusion. 

“There’s still a lot more work to do with the City of Freo and Human Urban to see how the skating community will best fit in with the new precinct, and be a good part of it. 

“We’re excited to work with them to make that outcome as best we can.”

Human Urban director Kyle Jeavons says the developer still has “practical and regulatory issues” to address with WASA and Fremantle council, but the structure of the Woolstores is locked to be “widely retained” and the Ledge safe from demolition. 

“This warehouse embodies Fremantle’s rich culture over many generations for many different groups in our local community, including of course the skateboarding community,” Mr Jeavons said. 

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER