Toodyay pedestrian bridge update

The Public Transport Authority has advised the Shire of Toodyay of its preference to permanently close a local pedestrian bridge because of significant safety concerns.

The PTA, in consultation with the freight rail operator Arc Infrastructure, closed the bridge at Duke Street in May after it was found to be unsafe.

There is an at-grade pedestrian crossing nearby.

The bridge does not meet current disability standards, the decking is uneven with protruding nails, and it has railing which is old and in need of replacement. 

In addition to the significant works that would be required to address these issues, the bridge is also non-compliant with current railway design guidelines and standards, meaning it would need to be replaced altogether which could cost millions of dollars. 

At least one local resident has reported to the PTA that they were injured after tripping over on the bridge, just before its closure.

The PTA also advised that it would support the Shire if it chose to maintain the existing bridge or build a new one, but would not fund either option.
 
The PTA will be undertaking improvement and repair work to the existing at-grade crossing before closing and demolishing the existing bridge.

It is the PTA’s position that, under the Public Works Act, both the at-grade and bridge crossings are the Shire’s responsibility, but the PTA has continued to maintain them in good faith in recent years.

Media contact: 9326 2526