Abandoned power station to get new life

The abandoned power station South Fremantle Power Station
South Fremantle Power Station. Image: u/tmccullough1251 via Reddit

A new future for an abandoned power station in Western Australia is a step closer with Synergy advertising the start of an expressions of interest process to sell the iconic site.

Like many power stations of its time, redevelopment of South Fremantle Power Station in North Coogee has proven challenging with the cost to remediate the site historically exceeding development value. 

Synergy will adopt a confidential sale process to explore sale options with developers that have the financial capacity and experience in developing heritage sites with remediation issues.

The expressions of interest phase closes on July 2, 2021. Subject to board approval, Synergy expects to announce the successful bidder in September 2021.

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The now abandoned power station opened in June 1951 and worked in conjunction with the East Perth Power Station to supply the metropolitan area with power. The site has significant heritage value and was recently listed on the State Register of Heritage Places.

Energy Minister Bill Johnston said it’s fantastic that after nearly four decades there is now an opportunity to pursue a new future for the South Fremantle Power Station site.

“The sale has the potential to allow an experienced developer to transform the site into a contemporary beachside destination, while also maintaining its heritage status,” he said.

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Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk said its an exciting announcement for the Fremantle community.

“I look forward to seeing how this project progresses,” he said.

“It is hoped any future development will also support local Western Australian jobs and deliver a new, vibrant precinct that will become a prime destination for locals and tourists alike.”

All sale enquiries and expressions of interest can be submitted to SFPS.EOI@synergy.net.au. 

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