Less than six months since the launch of Felons Manly, the Brisbane-based brewery is set to transform an unused Aldi supermarket at Manly Wharf into a microbrewery and pub.
A planning application submitted by Artemus Group, which owns Felons, details plans to make alterations and additions to the former supermarket within Manly Wharf for the purpose of “pub and artisan food and drink industry premises”, with an estimated cost of $13.5m.
The development application (DA) has now been approved, and the proposed venue is expected to include a microbrewery, bars and a kitchen with capacity for 700 patrons. The DA also details plans to host live performances and occasional markets, carry out works to the façade, create a new entryway and relocate public toilets.
The news follows Artemus Group’s acquisition of Manly Wharf in April 2024. The group, which also owns Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves, is focused on revitalising the Sydney waterfront precinct, with Felons Manly already well received by the community.
A spokesperson for Felons said: “We’re pleased to share that our development application to revitalise the abandoned retail space and relocate the bathrooms from the basement to the ground floor has been approved.
“This work is a part of our vision to transform Manly Wharf into a safer, more lively and family-friendly precinct for the whole community to enjoy. We’re proud to deliver improvements and innovations like our microbrewery to connect the community to the beating heart of Manly Wharf.
“We appreciate the Council’s due diligence and efficient process, and we’re proud to deliver improvements that the community have been asking for like relocating the bathrooms. We will keep the community up to date as our plans progress.”