Skaters face new fight to protect Fremantle’s world-famous Woolstores ledge.

Fremantle’s skateboarding community is once again rallying to protect the iconic Woolstores ledge, after developers lodged a request to amend redevelopment conditions, which could see part of the structure lost.

Human Urbans’ $110 million redevelopment of the heritage-listed Elders Woolstores building was approved earlier this year with strong community input. As part of the approval, about 85 per cent of the skateable ledge along Cantonment Street was preserved, following months of lobbying by local skaters and the WA Skateboarding Association (WASA).

But in August, Human Urban applied to remove Condition 38, which requires certain heritage doorways along the street frontage to remain sealed. Developers argue reopening those doorways is essential for building access and design integrity, but skaters say it will cut into a culturally significant section of the ledge.

The portion at risk measures just over 1.6m, around 6 per cent of the total ledge. While small, skateboarders claim any break compromises the ledge’s heritage and global reputation.

Rowan White from Woolstores Forever said Woolstores is the last proper street spot in Perth where skaters can freely ride during the day. Without it, he believes the creativity and art of skateboarding will be lost.

“We have huge support from the people of Fremantle – it’s easy to see from the 1000+ people who attended our event with Red Bull at the Woolstores last year,” he said.

The City of Fremantle previously backed measures to reduce conflict between skaters and pedestrians near the site, but a decision on whether to repeal Condition 38 is still pending. The revision has reignited concerns about how much weight community culture carries in planning decisions.

Fremantle Deputy Mayor Jenny Archibald said she is all in favour of opening the original doorways, working with both skaters and developers to maintain Fremantle’s identity.

With construction plans moving forward, the fate of Fremantle’s most famous skate spot remains uncertain.

Skaters fighting to keep the ledge are hoping to keep the ledge the same, upholding Freo’s longstanding arts culture.