Yarloop reopens seven months after devastating bushfires at historic town south of Perth

YARLOOP has been reopened seven months after a bushfire nearly destroyed the historic town in WA’s South West.

Road blocks put in place to bar passing traffic were moved aside on Friday as the town was officially reopened.

The devastating bushfire sparked by lightning in January claimed two lives and destroyed 181 properties, mostly homes.

Visible asbestos within 20 metres of homes is being removed but residents have been warned historical contaminants could work their way up to the surface over time.

The town’s school is set to reopen next year.

About half the town’s residents have confirmed they wish to return to their homes.