The City of Fremantle has begun demolishing the Carriage Cafe, a former local landmark that has been vacant and fenced off for years, following a prolonged legal dispute with the owner.
Background of the Carriage Cafe
David Furness purchased the timber railway carriage cafe in 2017, but it closed in March 2022 due to financial constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the site has remained vacant, becoming an eyesore and a safety concern for residents. Furness attempted to sell the business but was unsuccessful.
Legal Dispute and Removal Process
The City of Fremantle struggled to reach an agreement with Furness for years. In 2024, the city issued a notice under the Disposal of Uncollected Goods Act of 1970, requiring Furness to remove items left in the cafe, including ovens, tables, chairs, coffee machines, and fridges, by mid-March. The city valued these items at less than $3,500, but Furness argued they were worth more, preventing the city from acting until the value was confirmed. This legal delay halted any removal or work at the site.
However, as of Monday, work has commenced to demolish the surrounding pergola, deck, and concrete slab. The two Norfolk Island Pines built into the cafe will be preserved. The entire process is expected to take two weeks to complete.
Public Reaction and Future Plans
Residents had long complained about the neglected structure, citing public safety risks and its unsightly appearance. The city plans to restore the area to open parkland once the demolition is finished. According to a city spokesperson, "The removal of the Carriage Cafe marks the end of a lengthy chapter, and we are pleased to return this space to the community as part of Esplanade Park."
