AFTER 18 months, award winning architect and builder Brian Klopper has received planning approval for a small bar.
It will be called Laura’s.
The name comes after Mr Klopper's grandmother Annie Laura Hill, who for about 30 years ran Hampton vineyard four kilometres out of town on the old Toodyay road.
“Council were very helpful and fast,” he said.
“Other government departments were less so.”
The bar will be located on the corner of Minson Avenue and Gordon Place.
Construction started on May 2.
Mr Klopper was born in Northam, however has been away for quite some time, mainly working in Fremantle.
He said it is hoped Laura’s will open around October this year.
“The by-line is 'for wine and conversation',” he said.
“To me it seemed like a bar was needed in Northam.”
Laura's is being marketed as an alternative venue within walking distance to work with snacks, soft background music and a beer if it is hot.
There will be no televisions and jukeboxes at the premises which will fit a maximum of 50 people.
