Construction has commenced on a $78 million, nine-storey apartment development beside the historic Regal Theatre in Subiaco, with the developer also committing to fund improvements to the adjoining theatre.

The project, undertaken by Westbridge at 484 Hay Street, will comprise 71 apartments and five ground-floor commercial tenancies.

A sod-turning ceremony was held during October 2026 to mark the beginning of construction, following the demolition of the previous building on the site.

The demolished building incorporated a small section of the facade of a former sheet-metal factory operated by H. Rance & Son, constructed more than 80 years earlier.

According to Westbridge, heritage consultants and the City of Subiaco determined that the remaining structure did not possess sufficient heritage significance to warrant retention, as much of the building had been constructed or altered in more recent decades.

As part of the neighbouring development, Westbridge has committed to financing improvements to the Regal Theatre, including the installation of universal access lifts and additional toilet facilities.

A small bar will also be incorporated into one of the development's five ground-floor commercial tenancies, with a connecting passage providing access between the new building and the theatre.

The Regal Theatre, which opened in 1938, has been a longstanding entertainment venue in Subiaco and remains an important part of the suburb's cultural and architectural history.

The proposed apartment building exceeds the six-storey height generally permitted within the area, with Westbridge receiving approval for a nine-storey development.

The additional height was sought following heritage advice recommending a greater setback from the theatre.

Rather than constructing the building to its full permitted height along the shared boundary, the developer reduced the building's footprint beside the theatre and incorporated additional floor space at upper levels.

Westbridge Funds Management head of development Philip Anderson said the company had worked with the Regal Theatre Foundation to develop a proposal that would accommodate new residential development while respecting the neighbouring historic building.

Housing Minister John Carey welcomed the project, saying the additional apartments would contribute to residential growth and increase activity around the theatre and surrounding businesses.

Subiaco mayor David McMullen also supported the development, acknowledging the cooperation between the developer, council planning staff and Regal Theatre representatives during the planning process.

Before construction commenced, the City of Subiaco partnered with SPACEMRKT, with support from Westbridge, to provide temporary activities on the property while development plans progressed.

The project will introduce additional residential and commercial accommodation to Hay Street while providing privately funded improvements to one of Subiaco's best-known historic entertainment venues.