THE long-running push to redevelop the former Leeuwin Barracks site in East Fremantle is heading into a new phase, with Defence scheduling a public community information session next month.

The federal government confirmed this week it would hold a session at Victoria Hall on June 10 to discuss the proposed divestment of the 14.3-hectare Riverside Road site and outline the next steps in the process.

Federal Fremantle MP Josh Wilson said the session would give residents an early opportunity to help shape the future of the prominent riverfront site.

“I encourage the community to take this early opportunity to hear about the redevelopment of the Leeuwin Barracks in East Freo and to share their views,” Mr Wilson said.

The barracks was established in 1941 as HMAS Leeuwin, serving as a naval depot during World War II before later transferring to the Australian Army.

The site was declared surplus to Defence requirements in 2014, although plans to sell the land were paused in 2021.

Leeuwin Barracks currently accommodates office space, logistics operations, Army Reserve activities and cadet training.

Defence said personnel based at the site would relocate to Palmer Barracks, while cadets would move either to Palmer Barracks or a new leased community or school facility elsewhere in the region.

Mr Wilson said previous community consultation undertaken when the site’s release was first proposed would help guide future planning.

“When release of this site was first considered five years ago, I was glad to help facilitate and be part of the community’s input through a series of roundtables and workshops with the Town of East Fremantle,” he said.

“We can build upon that work and create a well-considered, inclusive vision that takes into account the need for aspects like open, accessible public spaces, and recognition of Leeuwin’s multi-faceted Defence legacy.”

The redevelopment potential of the large riverside parcel has long attracted interest from the wider Fremantle community, with discussions previously canvassing housing, public open space and heritage preservation.

Mr Wilson described the project as a major opportunity for East Fremantle.

“This is a golden opportunity to design and deliver a fantastic outcome for the Town of East Fremantle, and the wider Fremantle community,” he said.

The information session will run from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on Wednesday June 10 at Victoria Hall in Fremantle, with a Defence presentation scheduled for 5.45pm.