Road restoration project to strengthen local network in future flood events

A major road restoration program will see nearly 50 rural roads across the Lismore region upgraded in a long-term effort to improve resilience against future floods and extreme weather.

The Pavement Restoration Program, led by Lismore City Council, will rehabilitate more than 100 locations across 49 roads, with work scheduled to continue through to early 2028.

The project is jointly funded by the state and federal governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

It will run alongside the ongoing Landslip Restoration Program, which is expected to address up to 60 road landslips across the region by late 2027.

Lismore mayor Steve Krieg said the initiative was focused on long-term outcomes for the community.

“This is about more than fixing roads – it’s about building resilience for the future,” he said.

“We know how vital safe, reliable roads are, and this program will deliver lasting improvements with minimal disruption.”

The restoration work follows detailed planning and assessments, combining on-the-ground inspections with advanced aerial imaging captured by helicopter to identify priority sites.

Key routes in the program are Broadwater Road, Coraki Road, Eltham Road, James Gibson Road, Koonorigan Road, Nimbin Road, Stony Chute Road, Tregeagle Road and Wyrallah Road.

NSW Recovery Minister and Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said the upgrades would incorporate more efficient and sustainable pavement stabilisation methods.

“This is a fantastic example of what happens when all three levels of government work together to deliver for our communities,” she said.

“By pooling our resources, we aren’t just patching holes; we are building back better to ensure Lismore’s road network is tougher and more resilient than ever before.

“We are making sure these roads can better stand whatever the weather throws at us, keeping our locals connected and safe.”