The proposal has been in the limelight since DAC member Linley Lutton quit his position, citing council interference in the operation of the committee.
During its January council meeting, the City deferred the item so the DAC could look over revised plans again.
Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt said the council deferred the item to allow the design further scrutiny.
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READ NOW‘Council wanted to be 100 per cent clear that this important development did meet the threshold for exceptional design,’ he said.
‘We are pleased that the DAC has advised that this meets a new benchmark for high-quality design in central Fremantle.
‘We have a highly engaged community and it is good that there is scrutiny of the process.
‘As a council we are always looking at ways to improve processes and the DAC is no exception.’
The proposal includes a basement-floor gym and shop, ground-floor pedestrian links to the Queensgate carpark, Newman Court and the Myer building, and offices occupying floors one through to six.
In response to the proposal, the DAC commented that more consideration was needed into setting the ground floor back along Newman Court and William Street, which would provide a ‘significant and positive public realm contribution’ but that ‘the design of Queensgate continues to evolve positively’ and that it supported the design.
Dr Pettitt said the role of the DAC was important to the process of redevelopment in Fremantle’s future.
The Planning Services Committee voted to approve the application, subject to conditions.