Vasse residents raise safety and traffic concerns after parts of Northerly Street proposed for closure

Vasse residents are pushing back against a proposal to permanently close sections of Northerly Street, warning the move could trigger traffic chaos and create serious safety risks, particularly for nearby schools. The sections earmarked for closure sit between Harlequin Boulevard and Yebble Drive and form part of broader plans to guide future development under the Vasse Structure Plan, which has been endorsed by the Western Australian Planning Commission. The proposal also includes renaming the south-western portion of Northerly Street. Concerns came to a head at a community meeting hosted by the Vasse & Districts Community Committee on January 30, where residents packed the room to discuss how the changes could affect daily life in the area. One of the strongest points of contention was the impact on local schools. The precinct is already home to Vasse Primary School and Cape Naturaliste College, with a third — Vasse West Primary — planned for the future. Residents warned that closing part of Northerly Street would divert school traffic onto Harlequin Boulevard, Lynwood Street and Yebble Drive, potentially worsening congestion and increasing safety risks during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Local businesses also raised red flags. The petrol station on the corner of Northerly Street and Bussell Highway was singled out, with residents noting its only access point is via Northerly Street. Other businesses within the light industrial area could also be affected. Vasse & Districts Community Committee chair Mac McDonald said he was encouraged by the strong turnout, with around 40 residents attending the meeting. “We’re looking to work with the council to see what the other alternatives are to closing the road,” he said. “We’ve formed a committee of seven people to look into the best alternative for the area, given that we have a development of some 400-odd homes going next to the road.” A City of Busselton spokesperson said the subdivision plan was subject to the road closure. “As an application to close the road has been received, the city is required to advertise the proposed road closure and report back to the minister of lands through a council resolution,” the spokesperson said. “At this stage, the city is carrying out this advertising and community consultation phase and no recommendation has been made to or by the council.” The City of Busselton is now calling for public submissions on the proposal. Residents can share their feedback by Wednesday, February 18, 2026, via email at city@busselton.wa.gov.au, by post or in person at the City’s Administration Building.