Published on Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 2:26:53 PM
Read an update from the Deputy Shire President, Michelle (Shelly) Dival on Slaughterhouse Bridge
At the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 5 November 2026, the Shire of Toodyay took an important step forward in considering the preferred design of a new bridge as a replacement of Slaughterhouse Bridge.
Main Roads WA provided Council with 3 options. The Council approved a steel girder bridge which is expected to provide a safe, durable and long-term solution, with an anticipated design life of at least 100 years. While the construction of a pedestrian pathway is not funded by Main Roads they agreed to incorporate a substructure in the design. This allows the Shire to consider construction of the platform when funds are available.
Main Roads has advised the design phase is expected to be completed by May to June 2027, representing a significant milestone towards costing and funding considerations.
The Shire remains committed to pursuing State and Federal Government funding opportunities, where available, to support construction costs and minimise the financial impact on ratepayers.
Community Safety and Support
The Shire understands the disruption and concerns caused by the closure, particularly regarding accessibility and emergency access. However, Main Roads WA considered the closure was necessary following the identification of significant structural safety concerns with the 89-year-old bridge, rendering it unsafe for vehicular traffic.
We also acknowledge concerns raised by residents east of Picnic Hill Road regarding road conditions and accessibility. These matters are currently under review to identify potential risks and appropriate management measures.
Community safety remains our highest priority, particularly as the region approaches the high-risk bushfire season.
The Shire remains committed to assisting affected residents throughout this period and is available to provide additional information, guidance and relevant resources, particularly regarding fuel mitigation, access arrangements and emergency preparedness. Affected residents can contact our team on (08) 9574 9300 or records@toodyay.wa.gov.au to discuss their circumstances and explore available assistance.
Bushfire Preparedness
With bushfire season approaching, residents are encouraged to review their bushfire emergency plans, considering their property's circumstances, access arrangements and evacuation options, and remain informed through official Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) warnings and advice.
Along with other measures, the Shire is currently assessing additional fuel mitigation measures along road infrastructure to minimise risk.
In the event of an emergency, residents along Toodyay West Road and its connecting roads have two potential evacuation routes: via Picnic Hill to Bindi-Bindi Road or via Toodyay West Road onto Julimar Road. The safest route will depend on prevailing fire conditions, and residents should follow the latest advice and directions issued by the Incident Controller.
The Shire appreciates the community's ongoing patience and understanding and remains committed to providing regular project updates, supporting affected residents, and prioritising community safety.
In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
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