Pinjarra Road Construction Creates Crisis for Mandurah Small Businesses
Small businesses operating along Pinjarra Road in Mandurah are facing an existential threat as ongoing roadworks have severely restricted customer access for months. Business owners report catastrophic sales declines, with some experiencing days of zero revenue and comparing the situation to the devastating impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns.
Businesses Cut Off from Customers
The roadworks, which began in November and affect the crucial intersection of Anstruther Road and Pinjarra Road, have created significant barriers for both vehicle and pedestrian access to local establishments. Tracey Wilson, owner of Kaleidoscope Rugs, revealed her business has been cut in half since the construction commenced.
"I think the City of Mandurah have to come up with something to help us out, because we still have to pay our rent and they're not low," Ms Wilson stated. "Having no access will destroy us all. This will destroy us."
Ms Wilson, who has operated her business at the location for 19 years, expressed particular frustration about the timing of the disruption coinciding with a recent rent increase. She made the unprecedented decision to close over the Christmas and New Year period, citing the futility of opening when customers couldn't reach her store.
Customers Struggle to Navigate Construction Zone
Trudy Duns, store manager at Comfort Style, described customers who circled the block multiple times before finally determining how to access businesses. The current access route requires customers to drive west down Pinjarra Road and enter through the West Coast Kawasaki carpark, creating confusion and deterring potential visitors.
"They may have persisted, but most people wouldn't," Ms Duns explained. "It just makes you think, how many customers go around the block and then haven't bothered to come in."
Sales Plummet to Alarming Levels
Luke Morgan, an employee at Oceano Dive Centre, reported a roughly 30 percent drop in daily customers, with some days generating absolutely no revenue. He drew direct comparisons between the current situation and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on discretionary spending.
"We've literally had $0 days. It's been really rough on business," Mr Morgan said. "This dilemma has been on par with our sales during the 2020 lockdown."
Ms Wilson echoed the severity of the financial strain, questioning how she could possibly survive on days with only $65 in revenue while facing substantial rental obligations.
Council Defends Essential Infrastructure Project
City of Mandurah CEO Casey Mihovilovich acknowledged the challenges businesses have faced during the construction period but emphasized the essential nature of the upgrades. The current works represent stage seven of a comprehensive plan to improve Pinjarra Road from Dower Street to the city centre.
"Disruption is never easy, however these upgrades are essential and an important investment in Mandurah's future," Ms Mihovilovich stated.
The $3.15 million project, jointly funded by the City of Mandurah, the Australian Government's Roads to Recovery Group, and the Black Spot Funding Program, aims to deliver:
- A safer intersection for all road users
- Improved traffic flow through the area
- Better access arrangements for businesses and residents
- Reduced need for future disruptions through comprehensive upgrades
Communication and Mitigation Efforts
According to Ms Mihovilovich, the city began engaging with affected businesses in August 2025, providing traffic maps to help customers navigate to businesses and installing digital message boards to assist with wayfinding. The CEO emphasized that the staging of works was specifically designed to minimize disruption where possible.
"These improvements are essential, but they're not just about roads," she explained. "It's about creating a safer, more connected Mandurah for years to come."
With works scheduled for completion in June, the city has committed to continuing dialogue with business owners to manage access issues, including delivery arrangements, throughout the remaining construction period. Ms Mihovilovich encouraged the community to continue supporting local businesses during this challenging transitional phase.
