benj1000

Grimey, seedy, slightly menacing... I hardly recognize the place. It's still lively enough on Fri/Sat/Sun but it's not enough, and the businesses and the locals look sad. The restaurants are bad, the cafe strip is disgusting. Some buildings are boarded up and neglected. Shops are empty.

Brand new developments in the town square and historic areas are ....dubious at best.... Sorry, but they are dull, generic, and utilitarian and that's not something that should be associated with Fremantle. I realise we live in changing times, but if Mandurah, and even Midland can get quality inner-city developments then so should Fremantle.

The gorgeous surrounding areas are still fantastic and are as eclectic as ever, but the city itself is ruined by elitist, virtue-signaling city planners who don't want to address the problems that are driving the shoppers and tourists away in droves. How can they not see what their decisions are doing to this once pretty and charming town?

Manning was the poor cousin of Como and Waterford for many years, but thanks to the large block sizes, the neat grid street layout and park greenery, it's now more attractive and as comfortable as either of those places. For an area so close to central Perth (the CBD is only eight minutes drive away), the feel of the area is now solidly middle suburban.

Being surrounded by wide river and parks creates something of a nature belt that makes it seem peaceful and green year-round. Nearly every street in Manning has a lovely park or is close to the river. Many great conveniences are nearby...

Excellent schools. A burgeoning cafe scene. Lots of sporting and community clubs (rowing, tennis, football, rugby, bowls, and a great golf club are all on its doorstep). Lovely river walks and cycling. A new impressive library and community hub, and the convenient Canning Bridge train station is walk-able from parts of Manning (only one stop to Elizabeth Quays and Perth CBD train stations). The popular Manning Organic Farmers Market on Sunday mornings is a must-visit.

Waterford Plaza shopping center is conveniently located nearby. Curtin University, Technology Park as well as Como High School next door are within an old pine plantation and the tall pines give the area different look compared to the rest of Perth. A very short drive away is funky and vibrant East Victoria Park with its diverse cafes, bars, and Al Fresco dining, great on a Friday night! Less than 20 minutes' drive away is Fremantle and beaches.