Published on Tuesday, 17 March 2026 at 8:43:23 AM

In brief 

• Watkins Road Waste Transfer Station is on track to reopen in late 2026
• Will provide services for green waste, bulk waste and scrap metals
• Planning will now commence to secure a modern, long-term waste facility in West Mundijong
• Bookable and scheduled verge side collections will continue

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale Council has endorsed a plan to reopen the Watkins Road Waste Transfer Station, marking the next step in planning for the long-term future of waste services in the Shire.

At its March meeting last night, Council agreed to cap and rehabilitate the contaminated part of the site and undertake a limited re-development of the southern portion of the facility, enabling its reopening.

The Shire will now commence planning for a modern long-term waste facility at the West Mundijong Industrial Area.

When the transfer station reopens, residents will be able to dispose of green waste, bulk waste and scrap metals. Bookable and scheduled verge side collections for hard and green waste will continue.

The decisions, which follow on from Council’s decision in February 2025 to allow limited green waste, bulk waste and metals, will allow the site to reopen and manage long-term environmental risks. They will also save ratepayers costs by reusing soil already on site as part of rehabilitation works for the contaminated part of the site.

Work on the site is already significantly advanced, with the transfer station on track to reopen in late 2026 subject to regulatory approvals.

Unlike the Watkins Road site, securing a new waste management facility in West Mundijong will provide the space, access and infrastructure to support modern waste services well into the future. This forms a key part of the Shire’s strategy to manage growth responsibly and sustainably.

Find out more about the Watkins Road Waste Transfer Station reopening here: Watkins Road Transfer Station reopening 2026 » Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale 

Comments attributable to Shire President Rob Coales:

“Council’s decisions about the Watkins Road Waste Transfer Station are part of a clear plan for how we manage the Shire’s future waste needs as our community continues to grow.

“As the fastest‑growing local government in Western Australia, we have to think ahead and make choices that are practical, affordable and sustainable.

“Restoring a local waste facility has been a consistent message from our community, and this decision provides a straightforward pathway to reopen essential services as soon as possible. It focuses on delivering these safely and efficiently.

“We have also been very mindful of cost. This approach avoids significant rehabilitation and infrastructure expenses that would not deliver long‑term value for ratepayers, while still managing environmental risks responsibly.

“Most importantly, this decision resolves a complex issue in a way that protects both the environment and the community.

“At the same time, we are undertaking the planning needed for a modern, long‑term waste facility that can properly support the Shire as it continues to grow.”

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