After a multi-year battle, ALH Group has received the liquor licence variation it needs to build a new Dan Murphy’s at Como Hotel in Perth.
The pub group has been at loggerheads with the City of South Perth since 2016 about its plans to knock down the old BWS attached to the hotel and build a new Dan Murphy’s instead. The city took issue with the new entrance from the Canning Highway that was needed as part of the new plans, and although the Supreme Court of Australia ruled in the pub group’s favour, the decision was appealed and tied up within the court system for years.
The issue has now been resolved, with Western Australia’s Liquor Commission last week granting the variation to the hotel’s existing liquor licence needed for the redevelopment. The Dan Murphy’s outlet will be the first step in ALH’s plans to rejuvenate the hotel.
While lamenting how long the process has taken, ALH national director, Barry Cloke, was pleased that the group can now get to work on the hotel.
“This government has promised red tape reductions to allow businesses to invest in WA, yet we have had to fight every step of the way to get these approvals. We are delighted that common sense has prevailed and that work on the reinvigoration of the Como Hotel can now commence.”
Margie Tannock, a partner at law firm Squire Patton Boggs, has represented ALH throughout the proceedings said that not only was this a win for ALH, but also for the Como community.
“Our client ALH has a successful track record in creating true community venues. The Hyde Park Hotel and the Carine Glades Tavern attract a very broad demographic seeking to enjoy the modern Australian gastro pub food experience, from families with young children, to school year group gatherings, to young adults and multigenerational celebrations.”
“Those opposing this development have failed to appreciate what a revitalised Como Hotel will mean for the people of Como/South Perth. Recently, it was reported that Como residents have to drive 15 minutes to access a supermarket. In the same way, they have been poorly served in terms of access to a contemporary, attractive, family-friendly pub.”
Besides the new Dan Murphy’s outlet, works on Como Hotel will include the preservation of heritage aspects and the addition of a new alfresco space.