WORKS have begun on the site of one of Mandurah’s biggest icons.
Sutton Farm was bought by local businessman Paul Lance in 2013, with the intention of injecting life back into the property.
With part of the land already sub-divided, the construction of new canal homes next to the historic building has begun.
“There was a lot of interest in those blocks because of the location,” Mr Lance said.
“That being said, there is still one available.”
But that’s just the beginning.
The owner and his architects are in the process of getting council approval to turn the farmhouse into a restaurant and the barn into a café.
These were plans which he sought comment from the community for, early last year.
“I got a lot of feedback; most were saying that something needed to be done with the property and that they were happy about the restaurant,” Mr Lance said.
“At this time, it’s just how long it takes to get shire approval as to when the rest of the works will start.
“It’s private land – everyone thinks it’s government owned – so it will take time.”
At this stage it is hoped there will be a restaurant with a liquor license and the possibility of a beer garden on the site by the end of the year.
For now though, Mr Lance said the site will still be hired for wedding photos.
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