AUSTRALIAN brewery Running with Thieves have been approved to start pouring drinks at their new brewery at the former Sealanes site in South Fremantle.
The Fremantle planning committee passed a recommendation to approve the venue, which would have a 300-person capacity.
The high quality ‘gastro tavern’ would incorporate a working boutique micro-brewery and micro-distillery.
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READ NOWOf the 32 public submission for the project, 25 supported the proposal and six objected. Issues raised included noise and odour, antisocial behaviour and saturation of venues.
Alterations to the Marine Terrace and South Terrace frontages, including the provision of new doors, metal balustrades, alfresco bench seating, and new shop front windows will allow views across to South Beach.
The development also includes the provision of 34 bike racks and 15 on-site parking bays.
Running with Thieves managing director Scott Douglas said it was fantastic news and they have been humbled from the support.
“We actually have brewing equipment arriving in July so the approval means we can be producing beer in August, and you will be able to walk up from the beach for a gin and tonic by Christmas,” he said.
Running with Thieves head brewer Paul Gasmier said the fun now begins.
“I have a long list of recipes that have been waiting for this brewery, and our own taps,” he said.
“It will also make my life easier as we are struggling to keep up with demand, maybe people will stop yelling at me for more beer.”
Acting Fremantle Mayor Rachel Pemberton said Running With Thieves was the latest in a long list of exciting new hospitality venues in the pipeline for Fremantle.
“The fact that we’re seeing all of these developments coming up is a sign of the confidence private investors have in the future of Fremantle,” she said.