Fremantle: plans in place for Fremantle Synagogue to get big makeover

THE Fremantle Synagogue along South Terrace could have a new lease of life.

If a new development application is given the go ahead, the State Heritage building could have four separate venues under the name The Old Synagogue.

The application includes a basement bar and beer garden with access via Parry Street, alfresco dining and a restaurant within the Synagogue, an all day restaurant fronting South Terrace, and a roof-top bar.

Co-owner of the building Paul Kiely said when they stumbled over the historic building they fell in love.

“For years it’s sat empty and has been a bit of an eyesore despite comprising one of the most significant heritage buildings in the state,” he said.

“We consider it a privilege to be able to take guardianship of such a significant heritage place, we want to protect this building and restore this prominent corner.”

Co-owner Ross Drennan said the property has approval for a large four-level hotel in the rear.

“Through consultation with the City of Fremantle, we have come up with new plans to change the use of the site, stop the hotel and replace it with a unique hospitality offering,” he said.

“This will allow us to scale back the bulk of the development, protecting views of the Synagogue and keeping this historic landmark building as the main feature of the site.”

Co-owner Dean Flanagan said the intention was to create venues appealing to a wider demographic.

“We aim to create something special for local residents to enjoy whilst also watching tourists come through,” he said.

“We believe the days of big old booze barns are largely over and our application is testament to this.

“The restaurant venue has already been leased to some great WA-based operators who will be offering smart modern Asian shared plates.”

The proposed redevelopment on 92 South Terrace is open for public consultation until February 1 on mysayfremantle.wa.gov.au.