A Perth business owner, Joe Mahon, has reported that years of construction related to the Oats Street Metronet project have caused substantial financial harm to his business, Reid's Remotes. The works involved the removal of the Oats Street level crossing, elevation of the rail line, and construction of a new train station, resulting in road closures and parking difficulties.

Mahon told 102.5 ABC Perth that while he did not oppose the public transport upgrades occurring from late 2023 to mid-2025, the disruptions seriously affected his business operations. The location at the corner of Bank Street and Forward Street was chosen for its street visibility, customer parking, and easy access. However, the closure of Oats Street forced customers to navigate complicated and frequently changing detours.

"At the start it was gradual because it was issues like their workers taking up all the parking onsite so our customers couldn't actually park," Mahon said. He added that the shop was extremely difficult to access at times, with roads sometimes closed during certain hours and online maps unable to keep up with changes. "Then, once they introduced a road closure, it was like falling off the edge of a cliff. Basically, people couldn't access us."

Before the level crossing removal works, Mahon said his turnover had been growing by 25 to 30 percent annually over four years. He also stated he was not informed that Oats Street would be closed for 18 months until after the closure occurred.

Following the completion of the works, Mahon submitted a compensation claim for $250,000, which he believes represents the revenue his business would have earned had growth continued at the previous rate.

"I can't see any other option. I can't afford not to. My business almost closed last year," he said.

Sources