Happy hour over for new small bars in Fremantle as council changes planning rules
A growing battle between residential and leisure space in Fremantle has forced the port city council to change planning rules.
The City of Fremantle council voted at its meeting on December 10 to change local planning policy to no longer allow small bars to open in the city center without prior approval.
A council report has previously stated that a small bar could open anywhere in the town center without approval, causing noise problems to nearby residences.
Removing the exemption would require a small bar to submit a planning application which would allow the council to check whether the location is suitable and introduce noise control measures.
Cr Jemima Williamson-Wong said this was a big change as the previous dispensation transformed Fremantle and South Fremantle into what it is today.
“We know that once this is implemented, it is very difficult to operate small bars,” he said.
“And now as we’re on the other side and think there’s probably a proliferation of weapons and that creates noise issues, I think it’s important to acknowledge the use of that exemption and thank the past council for accepting that.
“It’s probably time for us to be a little more careful about where small bars are located, particularly around noise complaints and balancing residential and commercial uses.”
Other changes to the policy include allowing restaurants anywhere in the city centre. They were previously not allowed on Market or Main streets west of Walyalup Coort.
