Walyalup Bridge Reopens Ahead of Summer
Walyalup Bridge Reopens Ahead of Summer
Just in time for the summer visitor season, the new Walyalup Bridge (formerly the Fremantle Traffic Bridge) has reopened, providing improved access to Fremantle and another reason for visitors to make the port city part of their festive season plans.
Thousands of people gathered on Sunday 1 November to walk across the bridge, marking its historic reopening ahead of schedule. The community celebration, delivered by Main Roads WA, quickly took on a distinctly Fremantle character, with families, musicians, dogs and even a mini rave bringing the bridge to life. The event reflected the vibrant and creative spirit that makes Fremantle unique.
The former Fremantle Traffic Bridge closed on 1 February 2026, with works originally expected to take up to 12 months while the new bridge was constructed on the existing alignment. Its early reopening restores a critical transport link ahead of Fremantle's busiest trading and visitation period of the year.
In addition to improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, the bridge supports four new bus routes, helping deliver more reliable and efficient public transport connections for residents, workers and visitors.
Named in recognition of the traditional Whadjuk Noongar name for Fremantle, Walyalup, the bridge is Australia's first extradosed bridge, combining elements of cantilever and cable-stayed bridge design. Its feature lighting program will celebrate stories of the river crossing that stretch back thousands of years, recognising the area's cultural, historical and spiritual significance.
Over the coming weeks, road network changes introduced during construction will be progressively removed, including the reinstatement of access to and from Fremantle via Canning Highway and the reopening of Beach Street beneath the bridge. Final works are expected to be completed by 18 December 2026, coinciding with the launch of A Very Freo Christmas in its new location at Esplanade Park.
The reopening restores a vital connection to Fremantle ahead of summer and the Christmas trading season, supporting easier access for visitors, workers and businesses. It also marks the return of This is Fremantle's 50 Ways to Freo campaign, which will be complemented by Christmas retail and destination marketing campaigns designed to drive visitation, support local businesses and showcase Fremantle as one of Western Australia's most distinctive destinations.
For more information on the bridge opening, please read the joint media statement here. Main road updates can be followed here.
