Westbridge Urban has proposed a $78 million apartment development next to Subiaco’s Regal Theatre, in a bid to revitalise the underutilised precinct.
The Damian Collins-led developer has lodged a development application with the City of Subiaco to build a nine-storey building including 71 apartments and five commercial tenancies.
The proposal, at 484 Hay Street, also includes a series of upgrades to the Regal Theatre, which was built in 1938 and was heritage-listed in 1994.
Westbridge plans to provide accessibility upgrades to the theatre, including a new lift, additional toilets.
The developer will also work with the not-for-profit Regal Theatre Foundation to create new bar facilities.
Westbridge Funds Management Head of Development Philip Anderson said he was embracing the opportunity to rejuvenate and reawaken a significant community asset.
“The beloved Regal Theatre has been an iconic landmark and cultural hub in Subiaco for decades,” he said.
“Through collaboration with the Regal Theatre Foundation, our goal is to be a good neighbour and to breathe new life into this historic treasure while preserving its unique character and ensuring it remains an integral part of the community fabric for years to come.
"We understand the immense sentimental value this theatre holds for residents.
“Our plans aim to provide essential amenity that is not currently available – such as universal access toilets and a lift – to this architectural gem as part of this exciting new mixed-use development.”
Regal Theatre Foundation Board Member and former City of Subiaco Mayor Richard Diggins said the partnership would provide opportunities that would not otherwise be available to the Foundation.
“We have had limitations in the past trying to accommodate all patrons and this opportunity presenting itself allows upgrades to be made that would not have otherwise been possible,” said Mr Diggins.
“It’s the chance of the lifetime for us and we fully support it - the designs of the neighbouring building are sensitive to Theatre’s context and compliment it very nicely.”
Space Collective Architects designed the development, which will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom dwellings.
The council is seeking public comment on the proposal until June 21.
