City of Greater Geraldton councillors approve Froth Craft Brewery Co’s alfresco dining bid for foreshore

City of Greater Geraldton council has approved the use of a foreshore footpath so a planned brewery can offer outside service.

As reported last week in the Geraldton Guardian, Froth Craft Brewery Co was seeking approval to operate an alfresco dining area on the footpath of its planned development along Foreshore Drive.

City councillors on Tuesday night approved the motion 8–0, with Cr Jennifer Critch saying that “Geraldton was made for it”, highlighting the importance of supporting the motion to increase outside dining, which ties into the city’s centre vibrancy policy.

The policy, last reviewed in January 2023, supports the ongoing development of Geraldton’s city centre as an inclusive, well-connected space with diverse and creative experiences. Following a biennial review with no significant changes, the policy was passed unanimously by the council at Tuesday’s meeting.

The council granted development approval for the brewery in April this year, however use of city-owned footpaths requires a separate lease agreement. Under the executive staff recommendation, Froth will be offered a 10-year lease with an annual fee of $19,998, with a 12-month rent-free period or until an occupancy certificate is issued.

A similar lease was approved in 2021 for an alfresco area out the front of the Foreshore Hangout Lounge.

The craft brewery, which opened its first microbrewery in Exmouth in 2017, has since expanded to Bunbury and Perth’s North Beach. Connections intend to renew the currently derelict space last used as a second-hand bookstore and previously Skeetas Restaurant.

The lease will be advertised for 14 days for public submissions before being finalised.