Perth to get series of Melbourne-style laneways

Perth’s CBD is set to undergo a transformation as the street level of the CBUS property at 140 William Street gets converted into a Melbourne laneway-style series of bars and restaurants.

Under the proposed changes to plans, 140 William will include a series of laneways with artworks from local artists.

The development has been used as the site of a number of pop-up shops after it struggled to attract shoppers and retain tenants.

Kristi Dempster, the building's retail manager, says it has proposed the alteration of a number of architectural elements of the building to create a well-connected and enticing space with increased light and a strengthened structure of laneways and public spaces.

The three-tower development was designed by architectural firm Hassell.

It consist of 36,000 square metres of commercial office space, leased to the state government, and 6,000 square metres of retail, food and entertainment tenancies.

The building also incorporates Perth’s new underground station the City Railway Station.

Located at the corner of Murray Street Mall and William Street, it comes with pedestrian entrances from William Street, Murray Street Mall and Wellington Street along with access from Forrest Place.

It is the largest building in Western Australia to gain a five-star green star office design rating.

The development has two basement level car parks with two levels of retail and three linked commercial towers above and a restored heritage precinct facing Wellington and William streets.

“Together with Cbus Property, our challenge is to create a more accessible and inviting retail and dining destination at 140,” Dempster says.

“Redevelopment will attract more people to 140 and the Perth CBD to experience the cosmopolitan laneway culture. The existing heritage buildings will provide the perfect backdrop for the engaging artworks, making 140 the place to visit in Perth.”