A long-running dispute over the Lloyd Street Bridge project in Perth’s eastern suburbs has been resolved, allowing the major infrastructure project to move forward after a four-year delay.
The Western Australian Government has announced a redesigned bridge plan that avoids important Aboriginal cultural heritage areas near the Helena River, including a significant rock shelter and billabong. The agreement follows discussions between the government, Main Roads Western Australia, the City of Swan and Traditional Owners.
The Lloyd Street Bridge is part of the broader Great Eastern Highway Bypass Interchanges project, which aims to improve traffic flow and create a stronger connection between Midland and Hazelmere. While roads on both sides of the river were completed earlier, construction of the bridge stopped after concerns were raised about the original design’s impact on cultural sites.
The redesigned bridge will be approximately 180 metres long and will include four lanes for vehicles, along with pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. The new structure is expected to become one of Western Australia’s longest multi-span bridges.
Transport authorities said the updated design places bridge supports away from sensitive cultural locations and reduces environmental impacts. The government also said the new design will reduce vegetation clearing compared with earlier plans.
The delay began after Traditional Owners raised concerns that the original bridge alignment could damage areas of cultural significance connected to the Helena River. Community representatives argued that development should respect Indigenous heritage and involve Traditional Owners in decisions affecting important cultural locations.
During the delay, the unfinished road sections became a source of frustration for nearby residents. The incomplete connection created traffic issues, and some areas reportedly became dumping locations and were used for dangerous driving activities.
The state government said it chose to work with Traditional Owners rather than continue with the previous design. Officials said the revised plan represents a balance between improving transport infrastructure and protecting cultural heritage.
Construction is expected to begin before the end of the year, with the project budget estimated at around $180 million. The funding includes the bridge construction and the extension of Lloyd Street towards the Great Eastern Highway Bypass and Abernethy Road intersection.
The Lloyd Street Bridge project highlights the challenges involved in delivering major infrastructure while respecting environmental and cultural values. Supporters of the redesign say the final outcome demonstrates that consultation and cooperation can help create projects that benefit the wider community while protecting important heritage areas.
