THE Bells Rapids footbridge remains closed to the public due to repeated vandalism, with long-term reconstruction works now delayed until 2026-27.

Swan Hills MLA Michelle Maynard confirmed state government funding for the bridge had already been released to the City of Swan, placing the responsibility for delivery and interim safety measures in the city’s hands.

Ms Maynard confirmed she had submitted an urgent inquiry to the city seeking clarification on the expected timeline and any immediate actions being taken.

“We understand the importance of this matter and will keep you updated as soon as I receive a response,” the email said.

On July 8, Ms Maynard’s office confirmed the city was responding to the vandalism and ongoing damages to the footbridge.

According to the City of Swan’s response to Ms Maynard, the footbridge is currently closed off with tape, chains and signage and will remain closed until repairs to the damaged handrails can be completed.

The city has also advised it was in the design and approval phase this financial year, with reconstruction scheduled for the 2026-27 financial year.

Meanwhile, inspections of the footbridge are occurring twice a week and maintenance is being scheduled as needed.

An annual safety inspection is also booked for this month to confirm the bridge’s structural integrity.

The city is working with its community safety team to deploy a mobile CCTV unit at the site and has posted on social media encouraging residents to report vandalism.

Community members continue to express frustration about the ongoing damage and delayed resolution.

On July 6, group member Emma Barber posted photos to the Bullsbrook, Chittering, Muchea Info & Sell Facebook group showing the extent of the vandalism and a City of Swan sign declaring the bridge was closed until further notice.

“I spoke to the guys contracted to fix it and they said they are so sick of repeatedly being called out to fix it that they are not even bothering to do it other than a temporary patch,” she wrote.

“Because the next day their work has been ripped off and thrown in the river.

“The vandals are even bringing tools.”

Ms Barber questioned why no bollards were being installed at night and why cameras were not catching the culprits.

Echo News first reported on the issue in May after a video posted by Brigadoon resident Mitch Hastings showed large sections of missing railing on the bridge.

He reported the damage to the City of Swan on April 29, prompting a temporary repair completed within the week.

At the time, Ms Mowat said she was relieved the bridge was quickly fixed following public pressure but raised concerns about the bridge’s condition ahead of the Avon Descent.

Since then, the structure has been repeatedly targeted by vandals, with temporary barricades and railings removed or damaged again.

City of Swan has been contacted for comment.