Fremantle Parking Squeeze Looms as Student Housing Project Targets Point Street Carpark
Finding parking in Fremantle could become significantly more challenging, with over 100 parking bays set to be demolished to make way for a major new student housing development. The City of Fremantle has announced plans to permanently close the Point Street carpark from April 13, 2026, to facilitate the construction of purpose-built student accommodation.
Details of the Proposed Development
The Point Street carpark, which currently offers 132 bays and is frequently used for all-day parking, will be replaced by an eight-storey mixed-use development. This new building is designed to provide 392 beds for students, along with a ground-floor kiosk. The site has served as a carpark for the past three years but was vacant for a decade prior to that.
The housing proposal is scheduled to be reviewed by the Metro Inner Development Assessment Panel on March 26, 2026. If approved, the development is expected to offer students direct access to key amenities, including the University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle station, and nearby public open spaces.
Alternative Parking Options and Community Impact
With the potential loss of the Point Street carpark, alternative parking options in the vicinity include the Ellen Street, Fremantle Oval, and Parry Street carparks. However, residents and visitors may face increased competition for these spaces, potentially exacerbating parking difficulties in the bustling inner-city area.
City of Fremantle CEO Glen Dougall emphasized the benefits of the project, stating that it will be delivered by Sirona Urban and aims to strengthen Fremantle’s residential population. “This purpose-built student housing is an important development that will deliver new, high-quality and affordable spaces for students to live and study in Fremantle,” Mr Dougall said. “It will help stimulate local economic growth and foster more socially connected and active inner-city communities.”
Broader Implications for Fremantle
The closure of the Point Street carpark highlights the ongoing tension between urban development and infrastructure needs in growing cities like Fremantle. While the student accommodation project promises to boost the local economy and enhance community vibrancy, it also raises questions about parking availability and traffic management in the area.
As the development progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its impact on daily life in Fremantle, balancing the need for housing with practical concerns like parking accessibility.
