Source : Perth Now news
An iconic Perth pub rumoured to be the inspiration behind AC/DC hit Highway to Hell could become a massive 11-storey apartment complex.
The old Leopold Hotel site on Canning Highway has received an application for a mixed-use development featuring 203 apartments and seven commercial tenancies, including a micro-brewery, a liquor store, shops and cafes.
The application also proposed a communal pocket park facing Canning Highway, and the public is now encouraged to share their feedback online.
Affectionately referred to as the Leo by locals, the historic pub was part of the Canning Highway furniture for more than a century before closing its doors last October.
The hotel and adjoining First Choice Liquor store were sold together in late 2021, but there were no clear plans announced for what would succeed it.
Since closing, the site has sat vacant and neglected, used as a rubbish dumping ground and described as an eyesore by locals.
The application from Planning Solutions on behalf of New South Wales developer Changfeng Pty Ltd would see a huge 11-storey tower installed, offering 87 one-bedroom, 75 two-bedroom, 24 three-bedroom and 17 studio apartments.
Almost 2000sqm of commercial space at ground and mezzanine levels would facilitate a two-level micro-brewery and the other commercial tenancies.
The $93 million development aims to “increase dwelling density” for Melville locals, according to the planning report.
“This will assist the City of Melville with achieving the (WA Planning Commission) additional dwellings infill target density which requires 10,830 new dwellings by 2031, and 18,480 new dwellings by 2050, identified in the city’s Local Planning Strategy,” the report said.
“The proposed development was reviewed in April 2026. The comments and recommendations were generally positive, noting the location was suitable for a higher-density mixed-use development.”
However, some residents are already flagging concerns over the significant building height in such a central location.
Some also questioned the impact the development would have on surrounding businesses, such as the recently opened Bicton Tavern across the road.
Melville councillor Karen Wheatland shared the news on Facebook, questioning if such a large-scale development was “properly justified”.
“This is a substantial departure from the current planning framework,” she wrote.
“The site is zoned Centre C4 with an R60 density code. The existing scheme generally provides for a maximum height of around 17.5 metres, or approximately five storeys, with a plot ratio of 1:1. There is also no activity centre or precinct plan in place establishing 11-storey development at this location.
“I support more housing and well-planned development, but development of this scale must be properly justified. The community deserves clear answers about building height, traffic, parking, overshadowing, privacy, neighbourhood character and the impact on nearby residents.”
Because the project is valued at more than $20 million, the application was lodged through the State Government’s Significant Development Pathway. This means the final decision rests with the WA Planning Commission, not the City of Melville.
The public are invited to have their say on the proposal online until August 30.
