Leading hospitality group set to develop Fremantle Technical College

  • Prendiville Group purchase the historic Fremantle Technical College
  • Plans for the redevelopment include hospitality management centre of excellence, visitor accommodation and a new food and beverage venue
  • Unique development will complement Fremantle’s iconic tourism offerings 
  • Lands Minister Ben Wyatt today confirmed the sale of the former Fremantle Technical College site to leading Western Australian tourism company, Prendiville Group.

    The sale will ensure that the State heritage-listed buildings, which are currently underutilised, will be restored and activated, making a positive contribution to the broader revitalisation of the Fremantle city centre.

    With decades of experience in tourism developments and operations, the Prendiville Group will seek to redevelop part of the 2,400 square metre site, reflecting the former use of the technical college in a contemporary centre of excellence for hospitality management.

    Prendiville Group is planning the development of a training school for hospitality professionals, and is seeking to partner with various institutions, to support our hotels across the State, enriching the industry and creating high-quality tourist experiences.

    The company’s headquarters will also relocate to South Terrace within the technical institute building.

    A new alfresco food and beverage offering will be initiated as part of a short-term activation of the site, with a potential future stage including a hotel or student accommodation facility fronting Norfolk Lane.

    The new tourism and hospitality facility will provide dining and accommodation options within walking distance of key tourist attractions including the Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Prison, Round House and Maritime Museum.

    With the sale finalised on Monday (July 27), Prendiville Group will now progress design and planning for redevelopment of the site.

    As stated by Lands Minister Ben Wyatt:

    “Fremantle is known for its historic architecture and tourism appeal, and we welcome the concept presented by the Prendiville Group who have had great success in reimagining iconic sites to create contemporary hospitality and tourism experiences.

    “Not surprisingly, this Fremantle landmark drew interest from experienced developers and we have selected a proponent that knows the potential of the site to add vibrancy and introduce a diversity of activities to the port city.

    “The mix of students, office workers, diners and overnight guests will add vibrancy and activity to the site day and night, all year round, boosting Fremantle’s potential for international tourism and as a centre of commerce.”

    As stated by Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk:

    “Last week, almost 2,000 public servants moved into the $350 million Kings Square redevelopment and this announcement today reaffirms that Fremantle is the place to be for business and vibrancy.

    “This development will create new local job opportunities both during construction and in operations which will also catalyse further economic activity.

    “The Prendiville Group has a strong portfolio of establishments in Fremantle, including the Norfolk Hotel, Pier 21 and the Tradewinds Hotel. I am very pleased that they have a vision for the Fremantle Technical College and I will be excited to see it come to life.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.