The Fremantle Passenger Terminal will receive a new central canopy, repainted façade, updated signage, and new flagpoles and banners in a $3 million refurbishment to attract more tourism.
Upgrades to the inside of the terminal will include refurbishing the ground floor foyer, new security screens and modern furniture for the transit area in the first-floor function hall.
Fremantle Ports engaged Cox Howlett and Bailey Woodland architects to design the works and consulted on heritage conservation requirements.
The work has State Heritage Office approval and is expected to begin in March 2018 with completion in time for the 2018-19 cruise season.
The large and spacious Fremantle Passenger Terminal building has been a significant landmark on Victoria Quay since the opening of its first stage in 1960.
It is regarded as an excellent example of the post war international style of architecture and is on Western Australia’s permanent Register of Heritage Places.
Premier, Mark McGowan, said the cruise sector is an increasingly important sector of Western Australia’s tourism industry, servicing international and domestic markets, creating opportunities to showcase our state and making a strong contribution to our economy.
“Having frequented many ports in my life, they really are the gateway to a destination so it’s essential WA has an inviting and comfortable passenger terminal to welcome our visitors and travelling residents to give our economy a much needed boost.”
Minister for Transport, Rita Saffioti, said the works planned by Fremantle Ports for the terminal will improve the passenger experience in terms of both visual impressions and comfort.
“The Fremantle Passenger Terminal, although designed for an earlier era, has the berthing to handle very large cruise ships and space for servicing large numbers of embarking and disembarking passengers.
“Making it easier for cruise passengers to access the terminal is also important, so achieving better links with the Fremantle train station and Fremantle CBD will be part of our further planning for Victoria Quay.”
