Chicken Treat Applecross Shuts Permanently as $60M Office Complex Approved
Perth residents in the Applecross suburb have been left without their beloved fried chicken after a popular Chicken Treat store permanently closed its doors in February 2026. The closure was confirmed by Chicken Treat CEO Jamie Stewart, who stated that the lease for the premises had ended, and the landlord opted to proceed with a redevelopment of the site.
Lease Expiry Leads to Permanent Closure
"Unfortunately, our Applecross store has now permanently closed. The lease for the premises came to an end, and the landlord has chosen to proceed with a redevelopment of the site," Mr Stewart said. He emphasized that this decision was outside the company's control, expressing regret at not being able to continue serving loyal customers in the area. The site also includes a Hungry Jack's, meaning fast food enthusiasts will lose two go-to stores simultaneously.
Speculation and Development Plans
Online speculation has swirled about what might replace the closed store, which occupies a prime location on Canning Highway. Some social media users joked about hoping for a Guzman y Gomez, while others commented on the demolition of Chicken Treat and Hungry Jack's for high-rise offices. PerthNow has learned that plans are underway to redevelop 882 Canning Highway into a mixed-use site, primarily consisting of offices.
The $60 million development, located at the corner of Canning Highway and Sleat Road, will feature three shops on the ground floor, a restaurant, and offices from the fourth to the top floor. The Metro Inner Development Assessment Panel voted 3-2 at its January 15 meeting in favor of plans from MW Urban to replace the Hungry Jack's and Chicken Treat with a high-rise on what was described as a landmark site.
Impact on Fast Food Fans and Company Growth
While the redevelopment news is disappointing for chicken and chips fans south of the river, Mr Stewart shared positive updates about Chicken Treat's expansion. The fast food chain recently opened new stores in Golden Bay and Anketell, which have been warmly received by local communities. "For now, we're focusing on our existing network, but rest assured, we will continue growing as Perth does," he said.
Mr Stewart also highlighted a significant milestone for the company: "Chicken Treat is turning 50 this year, a milestone very few fast food restaurants can claim. It's a testament to how much we are loved by West Aussies. Despite tough competition in the category and other economic factors, West Aussies continue to reach for Chicken Treat as their favourite chicken and chips!"
The closure marks the end of an era for Applecross residents, but it signals ongoing urban development in Perth, with the new office complex set to transform the area's landscape.
