Ballina Lighthouse & Lismore SLSC Beach Access Feasibility Study

To support its goal of inclusive beach access, Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore SLSC sought to investigate permanent DDA-compliant beach access infrastructure. ICM was engaged to assess erosion vulnerability and provide feasibility advice for resilient ramp designs.

Project Details:

Client: Ballina Shire Council
Date: 2021
Location: Lighthouse Beach, Ballina, NSW

About This Project

The Challenge:

Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club, in collaboration with Ballina Shire Council, aimed to create a permanent, accessible beach access. However, the dynamic coastal conditions at Lighthouse Beach presented challenges, particularly in relation to long-term erosion, storm cut risk, and swash zone impacts. A detailed feasibility study was needed to identify a resilient design solution that would comply with DDA standards while remaining operational under future climate conditions.

The Solution:

ICM was engaged to assess three potential ramp options, balancing design intent with coastal hazard exposure. A 2D S-beach model was developed to simulate erosion risk from a range of design storm events, allowing for the determination of current and projected erosion hazard lines.

Each design was assessed for:

Erosion vulnerability
Construction and maintenance implications
Compatibility with existing infrastructure
Safety, longevity, and operational access requirements

Toe scour protection was also recommended as a necessary feature, given the structure’s exposure to active erosion zones.

Services Provided:

Site inspection & review
2D coastal modelling (S-beach)
Erosion hazard line determination
Long-term erosion and climate impact projections
Design vulnerability and feasibility assessment
Strategic recommendations for future construction

Get in Touch:

ICM has extensive experience delivering accessible, resilient coastal infrastructure along dynamic shorelines. Our team has worked with councils across Queensland and NSW to develop practical, cost-effective solutions that meet engineering standards, community needs, and environmental conditions. If your council or community organisation is considering an accessible beach access project, we’re here to help.