Developers have submitted plans for the empty Hungry Jack’s site in central Fremantle for public comment.
A proposed multimillion-dollar sports bar in Fremantle has been put on hold as developers grapple with design modifications and escalating construction costs. The plan to transform the former Hungry Jack’s site at the corner of South Terrace and Essex Street into a $6.5 million venue was unanimously approved in 2023 by the Metro Inner-South Joint Development Assessment Panel. However, recent changes to the design have led to a pause in the project.
The original design by Signature Hospitality Group (SHG) envisioned a “stadium experience” complete with a main bar, restaurant, brewery, theatre, open-air silos, terraced seating, and an accessible rooftop. The revised plan, presented at a City of Fremantle meeting on September 24, includes significant alterations such as the removal of a basement and balcony, an extended ground floor awning, and a minor reduction in building height. The bar area has been reduced from approximately 898 square meters to 750 square meters, with changes to brick colors and facade treatments.
Design Changes and Council’s Response
City staff recommended rejecting the alterations, citing a loss of the “higher quality design and architectural features” that were initially approved. The council, however, voted 7-3 in favor of Cr Andrew Sullivan’s motion to delay the project, allowing time for reconsideration of the design. A council report expressed concerns that the revised building would not complement the area’s heritage character.
SHG attributed the need for changes to uncontrollable factors, such as increased construction costs. Sam Fisher, representing SHG at the council meeting, emphasized the company’s commitment to Fremantle, stating they aimed to “endure through” the challenges while respecting the site’s heritage.
“We still believe in it. We’re here for a long-term tenure as well. We see this as a very long-term play and it’s a piece of amenity for the municipality,” Fisher said.
Community and Council Perspectives
Cr Sullivan highlighted the site’s history of vacancy and inadequate buildings, asserting that the proposed tavern would be an improvement. He noted that a two-storey verandah was more of a preference than a necessity, referencing similar structures in the area.
Cr Geoff Graham expressed optimism about the site’s potential, citing the success of nearby entertainment venues. He suggested a preference for a functional balcony over a roof terrace due to Fremantle’s sea breeze.
“I’m desperate to see this site get developed and I was really happy to support the original design because I think it tied in beautifully with Sail and Anchor and other buildings of that scale along the cappuccino strip,” Graham stated.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the enthusiasm, not all council members were convinced. Cr Jemima Williamson-Wong acknowledged the impact of rising costs but argued that the revised plans did not present a favorable outcome for the site. She emphasized the importance of evaluating the amendments as if they were a new application.
“In looking at an amendment to a development application, we should be looking at it as if it’s a development application that is coming to us fresh,” Williamson-Wong said.
Cr Ingrid van Dorssen expressed some disappointment with the changes but supported giving the developers additional time to refine their plans.
The announcement comes as Fremantle continues to balance development with heritage preservation, a common challenge in cities with rich historical backgrounds. The decision to delay the project reflects a broader trend of cities carefully considering the impact of new developments on their cultural and architectural landscapes.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how SHG navigates these challenges and whether the project can ultimately proceed in a manner that satisfies both economic and cultural considerations.
