text: OP Properties' $20 million proposal to create a carbon-neutral apartment complex in Fremantle has been given the green light.
  The group's Montreal Commons project received development approval earlier today. Image: Hillam Architects
  The project, called Montreal Commons plans to feature 39 apartments across five storeys and sits within DevelopmentWA's East Village Knutsford precinct in Fremantle.
  Designed by Hillam Architects, the development will also comprise a ground floor café, basement parking, community gardens as well as developer-funded solar power infrastructure.
  OP Properties founding director Luke Parker said Montreal Commons received unanimous support from the City of Fremantle's planning committee meeting last week and received formal approval from the Metro Inner-South Joint Development Assessment Panel today.
  At the JDAP meeting, Mr Parker said the presiding member, Mr Clayton Higham, noted how the development was 'quite exciting and very pleasing'.
  "By combining a carbon neutral design with reduced owners holding costs and beautiful and functional architecture, we've managed to greatly increase its appeal to buyers and approval authorities alike," Mr Parker said.
  The East Village Knutsford precinct is part of the One Planet Living program, a framework used globally by organisations across all sectors to create sustainable projects.
  Montreal Commons' sustainability features include an OP Properties- funded 75-kilowatt solar rooftop system that will enable residents to tap into 100 per cent green energy from the grid via local electricity retailer Change Energy.
  OP Properties has also partnered with Perth-based energy technology company Power Ledger for use of its embedded power network, which the developer anticipates will support residents in selling any excess solar power they generate.
  OP Properties has traditionally focused on property syndication and funds management and founding director Nic Osboine said the time was right for the business to expand its focus.
  "Montreal Commons serves as a good demonstration of the company's 'modus operandi' to think outside the box and work extremely hard and diligently to reduce project risk and find value others miss," Mr Osboine said.
  Construction is expected to start on Montreal Commons in 2021.
  Environmental specialist, landscaper and TV personality Josh Byrne (left) with Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt, Luke Parker and Nic Osboine. Photo: OP Properties