THE WA Planning Commission has given the thumbs-up for how the former OneSteel site on Stirling Highway in North Fremantle will be redeveloped into apartments up to 23 storeys high.The structure plan envisions a mixed-use development for the 31,000sqm site, comprising residential, commercial, and public open spaces, saying it will transform the area into a vibrant urban precinct.

The site is strategically located at the corner of McCabe Street and Stirling Highway, bordered by the Buckland Hill Estate to the north and the Taskers development to the south.

The plan proposes a diverse range of residential options, including townhouses and apartment complexes varying from six to 23 storeys. 

• The height of the OneSteel development (white) as it will appear over Leighton Beach, with the Matilda Bay/Ford factory (in green) next door.

Commercial spaces totalling about 12,000 square meters are planned at the podium levels, including:

• Food and beverage outlets;

• Retail shops;

• Entertainment and recreational facilities;

• Health and wellness centres; and,

• Shared office spaces.

McCabe Capital’s plan includes a traffic impact assessment to evaluate and mitigate potential traffic concerns, given concerns from the surrounding community about already-crowded streets.

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It predicts the development will generate about 4000 vehicle trips a day, with around 400 during peak hours.

To try and limit the impact, it suggests various intersections be modified to improve traffic flow, some roads be widened, access to public transport be improved and even suggests businesses in the podium could stagger their opening hours and workers and residents be encouraged to carpool.

Another aspect of the plan is public open spaces designed to foster community interaction and provide recreational opportunities. 

It says the layout emphasises pedestrian-friendly pathways and improved access points to enhance connectivity within the precinct and to surrounding areas.