Pavement Restoration Program
Lismore City Council is undertaking pavement stabilisation works on 50+ roads across the LGA, to repair damage from the 2022 natural disasters.
| Funding |
Jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Government under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements |
| Status |
In progress |
| Timeframe |
February 2026 to early 2028 |
Project Overview
This program is strengthening road pavements across multiple communities to improve long-term durability and resilience. The works follow extensive geotechnical investigations, detailed design and engagement with specialist contractors, supported by data gathered through aerial and ground-based surveys.
Rather than fully reconstructing the road, which involves excavating and replacing multiple pavement layers, the program is using modern pavement stabilisation techniques that are more efficient and sustainable.
The process involves recycling the existing road surface by milling and blending it with stabilising binders, typically foamed bitumen and lightly bound base material, then re-rolling it across the road surface. This creates a stronger, more moisture-resistant pavement while reducing material waste and the number of truck movements required. A seal is then applied.
Following the initial stabilisation works, the pavement requires a curing period. Crews will return approximately three to four months later to complete the final asphalt overlay and seal, followed by line marking.
Most sites are expected to be completed by mid-2026, with the remaining works to be delivered once nearby landslip remediation activities have been finalised.
Project Photos
Example of pavement stabilisation in progress.
A helicopter fitted with LiDAR imaging technology for aerial surveys.
Geotechnical investigations onsite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is foamed bitumen?
Foamed bitumen is made by mixing hot bitumen with water and compressed air, which rapidly expands into a foam. This foam is then mixed with aggregate – typically recycled road material – and then rolled across the surface layer of the road. The foam acts as a binder for the road material, resulting in a strong and durable road surface that is less susceptible to moisture.
What is lightly bound base?
Lightly bound base is road layer made from crushed stone or gravel mixed with a small amount of cement or lime added. This mix results in a layer stronger than regular gravel but not as hard as concrete, with a degree of flexibility that means it doesn’t crack easily.
Will driveway heights be changed?
Yes, as required. Affected driveways will be modified to suit the new road level.
Will potholes be fixed?
The Flood Restoration Portfolio (FRP) works very specific funding parameters and physical guidelines, with roads often only able to be restored to ‘pre-flood condition’, based on historical info. If a pothole sits within the confines of a FRP road project, it may be fixed. If not, it would fall under day-to-day Lismore City Council works and be addressed when possible. On average, Council repairs 25,000 potholes a year – almost 70 potholes a day.
Fact Sheet
Pavement Restoration Program - 27/03/26
Further Information
Click here to subscribe to email notifications and updates issued by the Flood Restoration Portfolio.
The Flood Restoration Portfolio is available by phoning 02 6625 0500 or emailing frp@lismore.nsw.gov.au.
Lismore City Council’s Customer Contact Centre is available by phoning 02 6625 0500 or by emailing contact.centre@lismore.nsw.gov.au.