Did you know that plans have been approved to convert the site of a former Aldi supermarket on Manly’s waterfront into a sprawling microbrewery and pub? This marks a key phase in the precinct’s ongoing redevelopment.
Wharf Precinct Overhaul
The Northern Beaches Planning Panel gave the green light to the $13.5 million proposal from Brisbane-based Artemus Group, granting permission to establish the Felons microbrewery within the former discount supermarket. This development is a substantial component of the extensive refurbishment underway at Manly Wharf, following Artemus Group’s acquisition of the leasehold for $80 million and the neighbouring Wharf Bar for $30 million in May 2023.
Artemus has already rebranded the Wharf Bar as a Felons pub and expanded its holdings by purchasing the Hugos pizza restaurant late last year. The new venue is expected to accommodate 700 patrons.
Community and Cultural Focus
Artemus Group intends to reinvigorate the wharf area, making it more appealing to residents, commuters, and tourists. The company intends to transform the waterfront precinct into a premium hospitality destination, fostering a vibrant community and cultural hub suitable for all age groups. The development application includes the construction of new, publicly accessible toilets on the ground floor, replacing the previous basement car park facilities. Additionally, plans are in place to host weekend daytime markets within the new premises on four Saturdays each year.
Entertainment and Amenities
Documents related to the application indicate that Artemus Group plans to incorporate “occasional live performances” into the venue’s offerings. The new pub and microbrewery will be a central point for local artists to showcase their talents through live music and performances, complemented by high-quality, artisanal food and beverages. The microbrewery will feature two bars, situated at opposite ends of the building, providing food and drink services.
Patrons will be able to observe 144 wooden barrels used for ageing beer, four brew house hot and cold liquor tanks, and various fermentation tanks. The venue will operate from 7:00 a.m. to midnight on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Sundays and until 1:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. A single management team will manage the new premises alongside the existing Felons pub.
Vision for the Future
Artemus Group stated that this new development is part of their overarching vision to transform Manly Wharf into a safer, more lively, and family-friendly precinct for the entire community. They conveyed their commitment to delivering improvements and innovations, such as the microbrewery, to enhance community connection at the core of Manly Wharf.
Published Date 23-Feb-2025
Photo Credit: DA2024/1249
