Multiplex confident Steve’s on track

Multiplex has received 54 registrations of interest, complete with a $5,000 registration fee, for 37 apartments to be offered as part of the Steve’s redevelopment in Nedlands.

Despite opposition from a local residents’ group and last-minute additional parking requirements imposed by the City of Nedlands, Multiplex Living general manager Tim Willing told WA Business News the redevelopment of the existing hotel and surrounding buildings was going ahead.

The site is being developed in a joint venture with Steve’s owner, Murray McHenry, whose family has managed the hotel since 1953.

“The extra parking requirement did not affect the apartment element of the development, and while Murray controls the commercial element of the development, Multiplex controls the residential side,” Mr Willing said.

“Both elements of the development do need to be in sync, and while the extra parking

it work.”

The development, to be known as The Esplanade, will contain 37 two- and four-bedroom waterfront residential apartments ranging in price between $1.25 million and $6.9 million. Sales are expected to exceed $100 million.

“Architect Kerry Hill, who is celebrated in the region for designing beautiful and environmentally friendly resorts, has created an empathetic amenity that will be an attractive addition to the local community,” Mr Willing said.

He said the hospitality areas would not only prove a convenient social environment for residents, but would attract local people who could walk to the venues.

“In this age of responsible drinking, most people prefer to walk or take a taxi to restaurants and bars. It is a relaxed lifestyle that we like to enjoy in Perth and one of the reasons why inner- and near-city living has become so popular,” Mr Willing said.

The buildings adjoining the Esplanade have four levels, with the corner building going to six levels.

The state government’s coastal planning policy caps coastal develop-ment at five storeys with an exception of eight storeys allowed where there is widespread community support.

Anti-development residents have threatened legal action to prevent the Steve’s development going ahead, citing concerns over parking, height, set backs and issues associated with the hotel.

Mr Willing said every effort had been made to make the project unobtrusive and mindful of its location, and he was unaware as to whether residents would proceed with their legal challenge.