Published on Friday, 17 July 2026 at 12:00:00 PM
The Shire has successfully advocated for improved road safety outcomes in Irishtown, with Main Roads Western Australia (MRWA) supporting the introduction of a new 60km/h Urban Area Speed Zone across much of the locality. This outcome follows ongoing community feedback, a Council-endorsed consultation process, and continued advocacy by the Shire on behalf of local road users.
The new speed zone responds to concerns about increasing traffic and shared road use throughout Irishtown, particularly around the Irishtown Road Bridge, where residents identified safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorists.
As the primary access route into and out of Irishtown, the bridge is a vital link for residents, visitors and service providers. It supports access to schools, healthcare and support services, local businesses, community facilities and emergency response activities.
The importance of this connection was brought into sharp focus following the bridge closure caused by fire damage in October 2024. The disruption affected the entire community, impacting school bus services, support and care providers, waste collection and daily travel. The experience reinforced just how critical safe, reliable and well-connected transport infrastructure is to maintaining community wellbeing and supporting daily life in Irishtown.
Working closely with MRWA, the Shire presented community concerns and collaborated on a solution that aligned with State speed zoning policies while reflecting local needs and conditions. As a result, a 60km/h Urban Area Speed Zone has been approved for:
- Arboretum Road
- River Street
- Hamilton Street
- Grist Road
- Nash Place
- Hickman Place
- Miller Road
- Meotti Road
- Hardy Place
- Scaffidi Place
- Brazier Street
- Fowler Street
- Kelly Road
- McCutcheon Road
The speed zone will also extend from the intersection of Irishtown Road and South Western Highway and include the newly constructed Hamilton/Fowler/Kelly Road link.
"Over time, the nature of the Irishtown locality has changed, and the need for safer road conditions has become increasingly evident as the area continues to grow," said Shire President Vivienne MacCarthy.
"Road safety and transport infrastructure remain among our community's highest priorities, making this a positive outcome for everyone who lives, works and travels through the area.
"This is advocacy in action – listening to local voices, representing community concerns, and working collaboratively with State Government agencies to achieve meaningful outcomes for our community."
The initiative supports the Council Plan's commitment to safe, efficient and sustainable transport networks, while reflecting community priorities around road safety, engagement and transparent decision-making. By listening to local voices and working constructively with government partners, the Shire continues to advocate for improvements that enhance safety, connectivity and quality of life across our communities.
Implementation of the new speed zoning and associated signage is now underway, with residents set to see the results of this collective advocacy effort on the ground in the coming months.
View a map of the new Urban Area Speed Zone
Back to All News