A 127-year-old Highgate pub is set for a major transformation, with plans lodged to expand and restore the historic Brisbane Hotel ahead of an anticipated influx of sports enthusiasts next year.
Proposed redevelopment details
The site at 292 Beaufort Street and 60-78 Brisbane Street is earmarked for a large-scale refurbishment that includes a new outdoor pavilion, heritage restoration works, and upgraded hospitality spaces designed to accommodate up to 900 patrons.
According to the development application, the proposed works have been carefully conceived to support the ongoing evolution of the Brisbane Hotel, bolstering its status as a successful licensed premise with a neighbourhood social focus and fond memories across many generations of Perth residents.
The proposal, prepared by Urbis on behalf of the ARK Group, was submitted to the City of Vincent in November and is currently under review by the council.
Expansion and capacity
The site area is proposed to increase by approximately 300 square metres through the amalgamation of an adjacent former right-of-way and a portion of the existing City of Vincent carpark.
Plans include a 142-square-metre single-storey rear addition featuring an open-air pavilion, games area, and outdoor bar connected to the existing courtyard. A covered kids' zone for games and a play area is also proposed, which can be closed off for event use and evening service.
Heritage restoration
As part of the project, the historic Beaufort and Brisbane Street facades would be restored to their original render, and a circa-1929 tile dado hidden underneath the paintwork would be revealed. A heritage impact statement notes that the works would provide conservation benefits by removing additions installed during renovations in the early 2000s.
The building, which was constructed in 1898 and is listed on the city's Municipal Heritage Inventory, will no longer be painted green as part of the conservation works.
Regulatory compliance
An acoustic report submitted with the application states that the upgraded venue will comply with State noise regulations.
The hotel operators hope the redevelopment will help position the site as a major social hub for people attending events at the nearby HBF Park. The hotel will continue to trade under its tavern licence.
